25 Jul 2021

Canterbury police training exercises: expect bangs, firearms

9:20 pm on 25 July 2021

Canterbury residents are being warned of police training exercises this week, which could include officers with guns, and loud noises.

A police officer holds a firearm at the scene of the Hamilton shooting on Tuesday.

File photo. Photo: Cole Eastham-Farrelly/RNZ

A police notification said tactical training for specialist teams was planned in New Brighton, Shirley, Riccarton and Ashburton from Monday 26 July until Saturday 31.

"There will be a visible police presence in the areas mentioned, including staff carrying firearms.

"Members of the public in these areas may also hear loud bangs or other noises such as breaking glass coming from the venues. Police would like to reassure the public that there is no cause for alarm."

The 'STG' teams trained regularly at various places throughout the country, the alert said.

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