Police are seeking public assistance to locate an offender who ran from a Whakatane property as police executed a search warrant.
Local police, with the assistance of the Armed Offenders Squad went to a rural address in the Taiwhakaea area of Whakatane at approximately 11.45am today to execute a search warrant in relation to firearms offences.
A man decamped from the property and despite extensive searches he has not yet been located.
Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander Inspector Kevin Taylor said: “A number of cordons were put in place during the search restricting public access to those locations for safety reasons. I would like to thank the local community for their cooperation, patience and assistance during this time as we appreciate the inconvenience it caused.”
Police are now appealing for further public assistance in locating the offender.
There is a warrant to arrest 32-year-old Daniel Morgan who is considered dangerous and should not be approached. He is maori, medium build, approximately 182cm tall. He has two large distinctive tattoos on his face, one on each cheek. (Note: the image with this media release shows only one tattoo. He has since had a similar tattoo on the other cheek).
Any sightings of him should be reported immediately via the 111 system. Anyone with general information about Daniel Morgan’s current whereabouts should contact the police and information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.
