The measures are now part of proposed changes to the Crimes Act 1961 and include the most disputed aspect, citizens arrests. Today The Detail talks to three journalists who have delved into the work of Kaushal and the Ministerial Advisory Group for Victims of Retail Crime (MAG). The group was set up in July 2024 to tackle rising retail crime by providing independent, actionable, and evidence-based policy proposals. We've heard from two quite strong groups, Retail NZ and the Police Association, since submissions closed last week that they have some serious concerns." Chapman says submissions show the concerns around arming security guards and making citizens arrests are shared by others in the industry, like petrol station owners.

Source: Stuff February 25, 2026 11:30 UTC