Auckland Councillor’s Son Allegedly Racially Profiled at Supermarket

Auckland city councillor Lotu Fuli has alleged that her son was subjected to racial profiling at the New World Metro supermarket on Queen Street. The incident occurred on Tuesday, when her son, accompanied by a friend, was accused of shoplifting as they attempted to exit the store.

According to Fuli, her son called her “all upset” after being stopped by a security guard who insisted he had not paid for his items. Despite the young man’s repeated claims that he had completed the transaction, the guard escorted him back into the store, where he was forced to pay again.

Upon investigating the situation further, Fuli reviewed the transaction records associated with her son’s card. She discovered two transactions of the same amount processed within minutes, confirming that he had indeed paid for his purchases. This led her to express outrage over the incident, which she described as both humiliating and distressing for her son.

In response to the allegations, New World Metro has not yet released an official statement. The incident raises important questions about the practices employed by security personnel in retail environments, particularly regarding racial profiling and its impact on individuals from minority communities.

While Fuli has publicly condemned the treatment her son received, she has also called for a broader conversation about the need for sensitivity and awareness in such situations. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about racial profiling and discrimination in various sectors, especially in urban areas like Auckland.

As the story develops, it will be essential to monitor how New World Metro addresses these serious allegations and whether any changes will be implemented to prevent similar occurrences in the future.