Police Back From Cyprus

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30666, 4 February 1965, Page 1

Police Back From Cyprus

(N Z. Press Association) AUCKLAND, Feb. 3. The presence of New Zealand police in Cyprus had had an impact on the people of both communities there said Inspector G. Wells, their commanding officer, when the first contingent returned to New Zealand today.

“Our presence had a bit of an impact because the people knew we were there if required,” he said.

The 14 New Zealand policemen (five men, all single, hr ve stayed behind in Cyprus for another tour of duty) flew back to New Zealand in an R.NZ.A.F. DC6.

The role of the contingent, now replaced by another, was largely diplomatic. The New Zealanders got on well with both Turks and Greeks on the troubled island. “Handled Well”

They handled well an assignment which was as important as it was delicate said the Governor-General (Sir Benard Fergusson), in a welcoming message read by the Commissioner of Police (Mr C. L. Spencer).

They had, he said, done much to enhance the reputation of New Zealand and

their force. Mr Spencer, in a short speech of welcome on the tarmac at Whenuapai, agreed. “I was very pleased to receive a communication from the head of the United Nations in Cyprus detailing the excellent way in which you performed.” he said. While they were in Cyprus the police supervised searches of cars and people at roadblocks, work with a difference for them, said Mr Wells. But other police work, including investigations on which reports were made to

: United Nations headquarters, • was similar to their New Zea--1 land experience.

“It was a help just being a New Zealander,” said Constable W. Edwards, of Whakatane, “especially being a Maori. “In Beirut, Crete, Athens and Damascus I got on a lot better because the people there are also dark skinned. Maoris are treated with less suspicion.” But the lasting memory for the men will remain the hospitality of the Life Guards, their hosts in Cyprus and in England. “They were,” said Constable Edwards, “really terrific.”