Kaitāia police are seeking the assistance of the public after a serious assault at a supermarket.
Police were called on November 17 after two members of the public were assaulted outside the Kaitāia Pak’nSave.
The incident unfolded just before 11am.
“Two men, one of whom who was wearing a gang patch, were arguing in one of the aisles,” said detective sergeant Russell Richards.
“Team members intervened and both parties moved on.”
However, shortly after an associate of the man wearing the patch arrived at the supermarket.
It was at this point the associate approached two members of the public “not connected” to the initial incident and “began assaulting one of them”.
The male victim was knocked unconscious, said police.
Richards said thanks to brave intervention from supermarket team members and members of the public, the assault was brought to a stop.
“If it’s not for this action, the offender’s cowardly act could have resulted in a far worse outcome.
“Police and ambulance staff were called to the scene, with the victim transported to hospital.
"He is understandably shaken, and is recovering.”
The offender had left the area, but police are following good lines of inquiry.
“Police have examined CCTV footage of everything that has taken place.
“This is an appalling display of violence and it has no place in our community.
“Police are committed to holding those responsible to account for their actions, and I’m calling on anyone who has not yet spoken with Police to assist our investigation.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact police via 105 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers.
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