Operation Hammer hits the community

A concentrated and proactive operation aimed at reducing commercial and residential burglaries in the Christchurch central policing area will continue to build on the successes achieved to date.

Christchurch Central Police set up the 10-week Operation Hammer in mid April.

More than 115 arrests were made and the numbers show it has reduced the incidence of burglary in the area. Provisional figures show an approximate 20 percent reduction in burglaries during the operation, compared to the 10 weeks prior.

“We had a tremendous, positive response from the community when we had staff at Eastgate and South City and we’ll continue to run information booths at our local malls,” says Sergeant Phil Dean.

Flyers providing advice on reducing the chances of residential burglaries were particularly well received, especially when an officer talked people through what they were doing to protect their own homes.

A new community response to burglary involving the Police Community Liaison officers, Community Watch and Neighbourhood Support will also be proactive, working together to target hot spots.

“We’ll continue this multi agency approach to residential problems,” says Phil.

Sergeant Phil Dean, provides burglary prevention
advice to a member of the public at Christchurch’s
South City Mall.

“We believe we can reduce the incidence of burglary, reduce the fear of crime and reduce victimisation.”