Brian Tamaki summonsed to court for allegedly inciting racial disharmony

Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki has been summonsed to appear in Manukau District Court on 19 October. He faces three charges for allegedly inciting racial disharmony in June. Tamaki live-streamed the moment police officers arrived at his South Auckland home to serve the summons.

The charges were laid under the Human Rights Act. Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Nelson stated that prosecution requires consent from the Solicitor-General. Nelson noted that police cannot comment on the specifics of the case because the matter is now before the court.

Tamaki believes the charges relate to his social media commentary regarding Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In June, Tamaki posted a video claiming Modi was purging Christians in India. In that video, he said, "Let's purge New Zealand of Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims".

Tamaki has denied the allegations, stating, "I have never advocated violence against anyone". He maintained that he challenges political leaders and religious practices rather than people based on their race. Earlier in June, police seized Tamaki's firearms following a temporary licence suspension. His firearms licence was subsequently revoked in August.

Where reports differ

• One report states consent for prosecution is required from the Attorney-General, while others state it is required from the Solicitor-General

Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, 1News, Stuff, RNZ and Otago Daily Times.