Bail for accused attackers

The six teens accused of the aggravated robbery of two men on Waihi Road on Sunday morning have been granted bail until their next court appearance on July 2.

Roretana Whaiapu-Rolleston, 21, Tupaea Whaiapu-Rolleston, 17, Trinity Brown, 17, Eugene Reti, 19, Sky Baker, 18, and Joseph Smith, 17, are each facing two counts of aggravated robbery. They entered no pleas in their first appearance in Tauranga District Court on Monday.

Police were called to the intersection of Waihi Road and Cambridge Road at 12.40am after a passing driver allegedly saw the group of youths attacking two teenage boys and two teenage girls.

Police allege the two boys were the main focus of the attack.

Both victims had been punched to the ground, where they were repeatedly punched and kicked before having their property taken.

Police inquiries are continuing and they would like to hear from anyone who was driving passed at the time who has information about the robbery.

Police would like to stress the importance of reporting any disorderly gatherings or suspicious behaviour at the time it occurs to ensure public safety is maintained.

“Police would like to acknowledge the actions of members of the public whose actions ended a cowardly attack on the victims in this incident,” says Detective Sergeant Rob Lemoto.  

“But we need to stress the importance of not placing yourself in harm’s way if you see crime occurring.”

It is important that anyone seeing a crime call 111 immediately and remain the eyes and ears of police, while avoiding becoming a victim, says Rob.

People with information about the attack are being asked to contact Tauranga Police on 577 4300, or alternatively, they can leave information anonymously via the Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 line.