Council building closes after assault
Ongoing police inquiries into incident
Following an alleged assault in the foyer of Horowhenua District Council’s Civic Building on Oxford St in Levin on Wednesday morning, the building was closed to the public for the remainder of the day.
Police and St Johns staff attended the scene and assessed a council officer whose injuries did not require hospital care. Police are now undertaking a full investigation.
Mayor Bernie Wanden said, “First and foremost my thoughts and concerns are with the impacted officer and those who witnessed the incident. I would like to thank those who acted quickly to support those involved, including local police and St Johns Ambulance staff.
“Some council staff are understandably shaken, and to them I say, please take care of yourself and one another during this time. If you feel you may need further support, please reach out.”
Some council staff members took the day off work to recover.
The Civic Building was open again to the public from Thursday morning with heightened security protocols, which will remain in place until further notice. At the time the Horowhenua Chronicle went to press police were still making inquiries in an effort to find the offender.