Pakuranga MP and Transport Minister Simeon Brown has publicly expressed concern over an assault that took place on a bus in his electorate and left a teenage boy with facial injuries.
As the Times reported yesterday, police are investigating the incident which happened on a bus travelling through Pakuranga on June 28.
At about 9.15am the victim was on a bus heading from Howick towards Auckland CBD along Pakuranga Road.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant James Mapp of Counties Manukau East Police criminal investigation branch says an unidentified woman got onto the bus before assaulting the victim with an object.
“This was an unprovoked assault, which left the victim with serious facial injuries.
“The offender has alighted from the bus prior to police arrival.
“We understand the fear and concern events like this inflict on the community and we will continue to pursue every lead to hold this person to account.
“Police have no tolerance for this type of crime or intimidation in our communities.
“We are also providing support to the victim and want to reassure the community we are working hard to locate the person responsible.”
Photos of the unnamed victim posted online show blood around his mouth. Three of his teeth were knocked out in the attack.
Brown took to social media on July 1 to express concern about the incident.
“I’m horrified by the attack on a young student catching a bus in Pakuranga,” he says.
“I’m grateful for the gentleman who safely intervened to protect this young student, and am pleased that our police are now investigating and providing support to the young student and his family.
“Nobody should have to leave their home worrying about their safety in public.
“We are all sick of seeing the rising crime in our communities and that’s why ramping up our actions to restore law and order is such a priority for the Governtment.
“I will soon be meeting with the young student from Pakuranga and his family.”
An Auckland Transport (AT) spokesperson told the Times the agency is aware of the assault.
“We understand the bus operator has provided footage to police.
“All buses are fitted out with CCTV, GPS and panic buttons that record sound, connecting directly with the bus depot who can quickly respond and guide emergency services to intervene.”
Mapp says police are continuing to make enquiries into the assault and want to hear from anyone who has information on it.
“If anyone witnessed the incident or has any information which may assist, we urge them to contact police on 105 and quote file number 240628/8342.
“Alternatively, report any information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
