Friday, 11 August 2017 - 3:56pm |
Canterbury

Police arrest four involved in organised shoplifting group

1 min read

Please attribute to Superintendent Lane Todd, Christchurch Metro Area Commander:

This morning Canterbury Police executed two search warrants at addresses in Aldershot Street, Aranui, as part of an investigation into an organised shoplifting crime group who have been operating in wider Canterbury. 

Four people who have been participating in this group were arrested and a large number of stolen items were located, as well as an illegal firearm, ammunition and methamphetamine.

A 27-year-old woman, 30-year-old woman and a 28-year-old woman were to appear in Christchurch District Court this afternoon, and a 15-year-old male was to appear in Christchurch Youth Court. They are facing shoplifting and aggravated robbery charges.

Police anticipates they will be able to lay further charges next week. This will take the number of charges the group is facing to more than 130 between them.

Police has achieved this outcome, which will prevent further crime occurring across the Canterbury community, by working closely with retailers and Auror. We thank them for their assistance.

Canterbury Police continue to investigate this criminal group.

As this matter is now before the courts, Police cannot comment further.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre