Otago police are investigating a hoax 111 call, involving allegations of serious child abuse, that prompted an armed offenders squad to be deployed.
During the call, on Friday night, a woman told police she had seen two children being assaulted by their parents and that alcohol, drugs and an unsecured firearm were involved.
Three police officers, two dogs units, the Dunedin Armed offenders squad, a police negotiation team, ambulance staff and a CYFS worker were sent to the address just south of Balclutha.
Police enquiries established the complaint was false.
Officers have spoken to a 34-year-old Wanaka woman. No charges have been laid and the matter is still being investigated.
