Violent kidnapping of Waipapa, police officer shot: 3 people arrested

Three men have been charged with a violent kidnapping and shooting at a police officer in the Far North.

A man was kidnapped at gunpoint on State Highway 10 near Waipapa on October 26.

“He has been through a terrible ordeal before he can escape and seek refuge from community members,” police say.

Just hours later, a police officer was shot on State Highway 11 near the Puketona intersection with State Highway 10.

A car stopped in front of the police and stopped in the middle of the road.

“Before the officer could get out of the patrol, two men got out of his vehicle and both presented firearms. The officer withdrew immediately, but a shot was fired at the vehicle, damaging the windshield.”

“Fortunately, she was not injured,” police say.

The police have carried out search warrants in Northland, Auckland, Tokoroa and Te Awamutu and have arrested three men. “All three are associated with the Rebeldes gang,” police say.

• A 44-year-old man is charged with kidnapping, aggravated robbery, arson, use of a firearm against a police officer and participation in an organized crime group and will appear in Hamilton District Court tomorrow.

• A 26-year-old man is charged with kidnapping, aggravated robbery, arson, use of a firearm against a police officer and participation in an organized criminal group.

• A 38-year-old man will appear in court soon on the same charges, police say.