Apology over Urewera raids

Photo posted by Tama Iti via Twitter
Photo posted by Tama Iti via Twitter
Police Commissioner Mike Bush is in Ruatoki today to apologise to families affected by thee 2007 police raids.

The Herald understands the commissioner has visited at least three families this morning including that of Tame Iti.

The veteran activist, who served 30 months on firearms offences following the raids, posted two pictures on Twitter of himself with Mr Bush during the visit – one of the pair drinking from mugs.

He wrote: "Mike Bush listened to our hurt, looked us in the eye and apologised for how the police handled raids. We feel better."

Yesterday, he said: "It's been a big week for Tuhoe. Tomorrow the police commissioner comes to my house to apologise to my whanau. Pretty big week alright."

A statement from the police commissioners office received by the Herald on Friday said he would be visiting affected families before the end of the month.

It said police wouldn't be commenting prior to the conclusion of those meetings.

The raids in the Urewera mountain range near Ruatoki resulted in the arrest of 17 people for allegedly participating in military-style training camps.

The Independent Police Conduct Authority found the raid was justified but police acted unlawfully detaining occupants of properties. It is understood that Mr Bush will be addressing the wider community of Taneatua and Ruatoki tomorrow.

- By James Ihaka of the NZ Herald

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