Police are urging people not to feed into misinformation by sharing unverified information regarding allegations of sexual assault in Wellington.
Last week police launched Operation Emerald to investigate a slew of claims that a group of Wellington musicians had drugged and assaulted dozens of people.
The claims were posted on social media, attracting massive attention across the country.
On Tuesday Detective Sergeant Stephen Wescott blasted social media users for feeding into misinformation.
"People who have absolutely nothing to do with the allegations have been accused of being the offenders on social media," he said.
"We are again urging people to come to the police if they have concerns and avoid sharing identifying information on social media."
Wescott says the concern from the community is "absolutely warranted" but naming people on social media does not help the cause.
Anyone with information regarding the claims should contact police on 105 and quote Operation Emerald.
Where to find help and support:
- Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
- Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
