Police in Palmerston North searched streets Jan. 27 after a stolen car was spiked, abandoned, and a gun found; suspect fled on foot.

Armed police in Palmerston North conducted a large-scale search on January 27, 2026, after a stolen vehicle was spiked on Railway Rd but continued moving before being abandoned on Alexandra St. The driver fled on foot, prompting a cordon and public warning to avoid the area. A firearm was found and seized in the abandoned vehicle. Authorities, including armed officers, searched nearby streets, including Raleigh St and Alexandra St, as the investigation remains ongoing with no further details released.