Police are concerned by the lack of community response to an alleged assault outside an Elgin shopping centre.
On June 8, a vulnerable member of the Tairāwhiti community was reportedly sitting and minding his own business when he was suddenly attacked by a man, unprovoked, police said.
"He was allegedly assaulted, causing him to fall back and had his belongings taken from him."
Police said they were not contacted by anyone who was in the area at the time and who must have seen what happened.
"We rely on the community to report incidents to us so we can respond appropriately and prevent further harm, so the absence of any reports is extremely disappointing."
Fortunately, police said, during a foot patrol sometime after, the offending was brought to police attention.
A 38-year-old man was arrested and charged with robbery in relation to the incident and has been remanded in custody after appearing in Gisborne District Court yesterday.
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