Police head predicts ‘era of violence’

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33693, 16 November 1974, Page 1

Police head predicts ‘era of violence’

(New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, November 15. New Zealand is reaching an era in which more violence can be expected, the Commissioner of Police (Mr K. B. Burnside) said today.

He was commenting on a wave of violence which has struck the country during the last 10 days.

Three people face murder charges from two separate incidents during the last week, and several other people have faced, or will face, court charges resulting from either armed or violent crimes.

“Violence in society is a world-wide trend, and with the escalation of it recently one could be led to believe that New Zealand is reaching an era in which more violence can be expected," he said. The recent outburst of violence was of great concern to the police. Mr Bumside said.

“The success of the police in apprehending the culprits responsible for the violent crimes which have occurred in the last week or so does

little to reduce concern at its prevalence,” he said. “Recently, I said that it was my intention to increase foot patrols. “When I said this I had this fresh development in mind.

“This alone, of course. Will not suffice. Although the full resources of the police will be used to cope we will not be able to eradicate violence until the causes of it within society can be isolated, and remedies found for them,” he said.