Auckland City Police, tasked with the responsibility of care and protection of the Government's international guest, the United States' Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice, are disturbed by the Auckland University Students' Association challenge offering $5,000 to anyone who can effect a citizens arrest of the visitor.
District Commander Superintendent Brett England advises that anyone who attempts to penetrate the Police lines of security around the Secretary will not be allowed to follow through with their plan and the consequences of such a security threat could be very serious indeed.
"We are obliged to ensure the safety and security of the visiting guest and we will not shirk from that task," Mr England said.
"Operational planning for this visit has been in the making for several months and there are highly effective security measures in place, so I would strongly advise the association representatives who've put this challenge out, to withdraw it immediately so as to avoid being caught up in something much bigger than they may have anticipated."
ENDS
Issued by Noreen Hegarty
Auckland City Police Communications Manager
Ph 09 302 6947 or 0274-951-589
Website: www.police.govt.nz