"Terror" Police Raids Are Expensive For Arrestees

Media release from
Friends Of Wellington Terror Arrestees

"Terror" Police Raids Are Expensive For Arrestees

Police raids under the guise of terrorism suppression are expensive for arrestees.

The Police campaign to justify their decision to raid houses all around the country in a fishing expedition for evidence of a ‘terrorist plot’ is ongoing.

On Monday Helen Clark stated that the people arrested on firearms charges have been using firearms, testing napalm bombs, and constructing Molotov cocktails– this before any evidence has been presented to court.

“This campaign to save face and legitimise the Terrorism Suppression Act is punishing people for being outspoken against the police and terrorism laws. And it’s financially punishing their family and friends, who still have to pay their bills, as well as repairing damage and replacing whatever the police decided to take,” says a friend of the Wellington activists targeted by police.

“One Wellington activist had all her clothing and possessions confiscated. When the courts grant her bail, she will have to replace everything.”

At the request of the Police, and based on suppressed evidence, most of those arrested remain in prison without bail, even though only minor charges have so far been laid.

In the two weeks that they have been held in custody, they have been unable to earn income, while their families and households are without their contributions to rent, bills and food. On top of all this, there is the fear of huge legal fees if those arrested are charged under as yet untested ‘anti-terror’ laws.

At the request of Police, all court hearings will be held in Auckland.

Those granted bail will need to travel back and forth with their lawyers. If charged under the Terrorism Suppression Act, this is likely to be a lengthy process requiring many trips.

At the request of Police, if any arrestees are not granted bail, they will be held in Auckland, requiring their families to travel there to visit.

“Police are campaigning in the media with taxpayers’ money. We don’t have access to that sort of money to fight the things they’re saying,” says a spokesperson for friends of the activists.

“We’re asking people to contribute what they can, to support these people and their families being punished financially by the Police.”

Peace Action Wellington has a bank account for donations (Peace Action Wellington, BNZ, North End Branch, 02 0536 0458570 00), or you can donate online at http://www.civilrightsdefence.org.nz/donate.

ENDS

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