Security measures in place at WINZ

Security protocols are in place at all Work and Income offices throughout the Bay of Plenty following the fatal shootings at a WINZ office in Ashburton this morning.

Two people are dead and a third is seriously injured in Ashburton Hospital after a man in a balaclava opened fire in the office.

Police are currently searching for John Tully, 48, in relation to the incident.

A re-assurance for Tauranga clients and staff of WINZ came late this afternoon with the announcement security protocols are in place and the department is examining what else may need to be done.

The Ministry of Social Development reports it has closed its offices in Ashburton, Timaru, Oamaru, Christchurch and Balclutha after the attack.

Bay of Plenty offices remain open but the ministry is not being specific about its security precautions.

Ministry of Social Development chief executive Brendan Boyle says they are naturally devastated by the deaths of two of their colleagues and he extended his deepest sympathies to the families, friends and workmates.

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4 comments

Is Tully in the BOP?

Posted on 01-09-2014 18:18 | By jed

Can't think why they would do this.


Its only a matter of time.....

Posted on 02-09-2014 08:25 | By Angel74

Before someone may snap, and you never say never, dealing with winz can be more than frustrating at times and we all deal with situations differently. Tully just took things far too far......my love and prayers to the family and friends of the lives lost yesterday.


Sad

Posted on 02-09-2014 11:55 | By Capt_Kaveman

this is why HNZ need lots of 1brm homes units,but for the sake of being mucked around 2 people are dead and now he will get is bed and food free, its sad when it comes to this


only time

Posted on 02-09-2014 12:31 | By Sara

It was only time before something like this happened.I agree that dealing with WINZ can be more than frustrating...some of them look down on you and cannot accept that things out in the big world can be hard...Still believe that Paula Bennett has alot to answer for....


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