Alarm Bells Ring As Citizen’s Arrest Laws PassThe 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 advocated strongly against the expansion of citizen’s arrest laws, which will allow any person to restrain someone they believe has committed any offence against the Crimes Act, no matter the scale of the offence, nor the age of the person. “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. “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.