'Appalling': Cars seized after bad driving during funeral procession

Passengers were allegedly seen hanging out of car windows and vehicles were reportedly driven dangerously during a gang‑related funeral procession in Auckland last month, prompting police to impound cars and summons several drivers to court.

Police monitored the convoy as it travelled between Ōtara at the Manukau Memorial Gardens in Wiri on February 5.

As a result of the operation, seven vehicles were impounded, four drivers have been summonsed to court, and another three have charges pending.

Inspector Ann Wilkie said officers witnessed "reckless" behaviour and "appalling actions" from some taking part in the procession.

"Adults and teenagers were sitting on the edge of car windows; as well as several vehicles being driven dangerously," she said.

"This behaviour continued for quite some time, putting other road users, and the people hanging out of the windows at real risk of harm."

A checkpoint was established at the Manukau Memorial Gardens to check those leaving.

Traffic cameras and police staff were able to capture images of drivers, passengers and registration plates of vehicles involved," Wilke said.

"As a result, we have already caught up with a handful of people we have identified as committing these dangerous acts. Our enforcement phase is ongoing, and we expect to take further action."

Wilkie said police acknowledged the death of a loved one and wanted to support a safe journey but could not allow the sort of behaviour taking place.

"Police have made it clear to participants about what is acceptable behaviour," she said.

"The behaviour by some of those involved in this was not good enough and they have been put before the Court."

Four women, aged between 27 and 37, had been summonsed to appear in the Manukau District Court for dangerous driving and had their vehicles impounded for 28 days.

Another three vehicles were impounded for 28 days, with police considering further charges.