Auckland, New Zealand – Shock and outrage swept through the community as a disturbing video surfaced on social media, depicting a group of teenage girls violently attacking another girl outside the Henderson bus station in West Auckland. The video, captured on a Saturday afternoon, shows the assailants surrounding the victim, with some aggressively striking her, while another girl records the brutal assault.
The caption accompanying the video, “We’re not sorry” and “the girls attacking… there all from Waitak,” further fueled the public’s dismay over the incident. Reports emerged of a similar group of girls allegedly targeting another individual at Henderson Mall earlier in the day, leaving the community on edge and concerned about the safety of its residents.
In response to the incident, law enforcement officers promptly intervened and arrested two young individuals involved in the assault. Subsequent investigations led to the identification of two more suspects, highlighting the seriousness with which authorities are addressing the issue of violence among young people in public spaces.
This recent attack at the Henderson bus station adds to a series of violent incidents occurring near or on public transport in Auckland. Just yesterday, in the suburb of Albany, two teenage girls fell victim to an assault by a group of six individuals on a bus, resulting in one of the victims feeling traumatized and fearful of using public transportation again.
Instances of intimidation and violent behavior in public spaces have raised concerns among residents, particularly following the tragic death of a young man who was fatally stabbed at Albany station in broad daylight last year. Consequently, Auckland Transport and the police are ramping up security measures at North Shore bus stations to ensure the safety of commuters, especially children and vulnerable individuals.
“The safety and well-being of Aucklanders remain our top priority in providing a secure transport network for everyone,” emphasized Rachel Cara, Auckland Transport’s general manager of public transport operations. Increased patrols, presence of transport officers, and enhanced security measures are being implemented at various bus facilities to address the growing concerns around safety and security in public spaces. As authorities continue to investigate and address these incidents, collaboration between law enforcement and transport officials is crucial in safeguarding the community and ensuring a safe environment for all residents.