The Independent Police Conduct Authority said today it will investigate any complaints it receives or which are referred to it in relation to the Police raids of October 15.
The Authority also confirmed that it had received a complaint made by Peter Williams QC against Police on behalf of Tuhoe. Police had referred the complaint to the Authority after receiving it from Mr Williams. Under the Independent Police Conduct Authority Act 1988, Police are required to forward any complaint involving possible misconduct or neglect of duty.
Another five complaints have also been received from individuals, and further complaints may also be received.
Authority Chair Justice Lowell Goddard said anyone approaching the Authority with a substantive complaint about the raids could be assured that their complaint would be investigated rigorously and independently.
‘Our role is to receive and consider complaints about alleged Police misconduct or neglect of duty, or about Police practices, policies or procedures.’ said Justice Goddard. ‘The Authority is fully independent of Police.’ Justice Goddard said she would lead the investigation, working with the Authority’s independent investigators.