Illegal transmission on Police channels

Transmitting on Police radio channels is illegal. A recent prosecution highlights the serious consequences of interfering with emergency communications and the risks posed to public safety.

It is illegal for any person (apart from NZ Police) to transmit on Police channels. Unsolicited radiocommunications can cause serious harm and put Officers and the New Zealand public in danger. Radio Spectrum Management takes a very serious stance against those who disrupt or cause interference to Police or other emergency services.

Recently, Radio Spectrum Management assisted the Otago Police in bringing charges against Scott Kelly who was intentionally disrupting Police radiocommunications. The culprit was using an illegal radio to cause havoc in Mosgiel. Kelly appeared in the Dunedin District Court and pleaded guilty to several police charges and two charges under the Radiocommunication Act 1989, s113 and s114. 

Read more about:

• Radiocommunication Act 1989(external link) — New Zealand Legislation
  • Section 113(external link) — New Zealand Legislation
  • Section 114(external link) — New Zealand Legislation