Three people charged for allegedly posing as detectives in Bay of Plenty
Wednesday 23 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated 
Three people face kidnapping charges after allegedly pretending to be police officers on 13 September. The group reportedly used a retired police vehicle fitted with unofficial lights to detain two youths in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Police say the individuals involved were impostors.
Key facts
4 facts
- Three people arrested for allegedly posing as police in Eastern Bay of Plenty
- Incident occurred around 6pm on 13 September
- Suspects allegedly used a black 2017 Holden Commodore refitted with off-market lights
- Victims were two youths
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Three people have been arrested for allegedly posing as police officers and detaining two youths in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. The group allegedly used a black 2017 Holden Commodore that had previously been a police vehicle. This car was reportedly fitted with off-market lights to look like an unmarked police car.
The incident occurred around 6pm on 13 September. The occupants were wearing plain clothes and allegedly portrayed themselves as detectives. Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Ash Clements said, “This, paired with the imitation Police vehicle, is more than enough to trick an unsuspecting person”.
A 34-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday for the incident and earlier alleged impersonations. He faces charges including kidnapping, indecent assault, intimidation, and impersonating personnel and police. He is due in Whakatāne District Court on 7 October.
A 19-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were arrested on Wednesday. The 19-year-old faces charges of indecent assault, kidnapping, and impersonating police. The 25-year-old is charged with kidnapping.
Where reports differ
- One report states the 34-year-old man was arrested on Monday, while another says he was arrested on Tuesday
Compiled from reports by Stuff and 1News.