ARREST OF THE MAORI FENCERS.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 1998, 20 July 1880, Page 2

ARREST OF THE MAORI FENCERS.

[FROM OtTB OWN CORRESPONDENT.]) WELLINGTON, July 19. I have just learnt from the best authority that Te Whetu and several other Maoris persisting in the re-erection of fences across the roads on tho plains made by the constabulary have been at length arrested by Colonel Eoberts, and sent off under escort to New Plymouth. Te Whetu is a very turbulent and dangerous individual, who is understood to have been guilty of many deeds of violence. NEW PLYMOUTH, July 20. The Natives who were fencing across the road at Werekino were arrested late yesterday afternoon, and having been handcuffed, were put in a conveyance and forwarded to town. They arrived in New Plymouth about two o’clock this morning, and were put into the gaol. Their names are Te Whetu, Takaru, Te Pene, Hone Te Ohoki, Matangi Euhau, Te Hone, Te Bauka, and Te Wihana. Nothing is known yet as to when they will be brought before the magistrate, or what will be dona with them. Later. The following are further particulars re the arrest of Natives. At about three p.m. yesterday afternoon the Natives who were fencing were ordered to stop operations by Colonel Eoberts, and on their refusing to do so, he ordered them to be arrested. Te Whetu, the leader, was first singled out and seized. He resisted violently, and it was with much difficulty ho was secured, but after a good deal of struggling the handcuffs were securely fastened on and To Whetu made a prisoner. This Native is supposed to be the murderer of Brady, a European, some thirteen years ago. The other Natives, on seeing their ohfef a prisoner, quietly surrendered themselves, and all were duly handcuffed. The Natives were then taken to the Armed Constabulary camp, and Colonel Eoberts sent to town for a conveyance. Several were sent out, arriving there at seven o’clock last night. The prisoners were well guarded by tho constabulary and brought into the town of New Plymouth, arriving at 2 this morning. It is not known what will be done with them, as the Crown Prosecutor has got no instructions respecting them. It is said that one of Te Whiti’s sons is amongst the prisoners. When the news of the arrest was carried to Parihaka great excitement prevailed amongst the Natives assembled at the meeting, and they all declared their determination to prosecute tho work of erecting fences until all were taken prisoners. A number of Natives near town started for Parihaka this morning.