Police and taxi drivers attacked during brawl at Palmerston North hospital following minor accident

Hospital security called police and two officers arrived, but the witness said they were quickly overwhelmed by as many as 14 people.

The taxi driver involved in the accident was taken to the emergency department and “hidden” from the attackers who threatened to kill him.

“There were screams and curses. There was a brutal beating by the police,” said the witness.

“Their police car was also attacked. It was appalling and shameful.”

Six other police cars soon arrived, and a witness said officers used pepper spray and a Taser to break up the fight.

As part of its 100-day plan, the government provided extra security to the emergency departments of high-risk hospitals over the summer, but in April this year it reduced the number of 24-hour security guards in some emergency departments.

RNZ has contacted police and Te Whatu Ora for comment.

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