The peak body representing New Zealand’s retail sector says retailers are on edge after the passing of the citizen’s arrest provisions in the Crimes Amendment Bill today. “Retail NZ, along with the Police Association and Business NZ, were unequivocal when we submitted to Parliament that allowing citizen’s arrest dramatically increases the likelihood of serious injury, and even death. Having untrained people attempting to arrest and restrain others, risks escalating already heightened situations and may encourage offenders to proactively arm-up further with weapons,” Ms Young says. “Retailers do not have the skills nor facilities to deal with people who have been subject to a citizen’s arrest. Retail NZ is supporting its members as best it can to prepare for the law change, but Ms Young says official direction is needed.