Wellington Police have arrested a 31 year-old man and a 28 year old man in relation to increased burglary activity in Thorndon, Kelburn and Aro Valley.
Erahi Ripohau and Ricky Moeke will appear in Wellington District Court tomorrow on charges of burglary and receiving stolen property.
Wellington Area Acting Prevention Manager Steve Dearns said while Police believe the pair have been involved in several recent burglaries in inner-city Wellington there may be other offenders or groups of offenders at work.
“Over-all the number of burglaries in Wellington is on par with previous years,” Mr Dearns said. “However there has been increased activity in an inner-city corridor stretching from Thorndon to Aro Valley.”
“In virtually every case the offender has gained access to the property through an open window or an unlocked door.”
Mr Dearns said residents need to make sure their properties are secure 24 hours a day.
“Some of the properties targeted have been shared flats where occupants have left doors open for other flat-mates returning home. Police ask that in these cases, occupiers and house owners are cautious and lock doors and windows even if someone is planning to return home later.”
Mr Dearns said we would prefer someone to have their sleep interrupted by a flat-mate returning home, than reporting a break in the next morning.
“By taking simple precautions, making sure your windows are secure and your doors are locked, you dramatically reduce your chances of being a victim of burglary.”
“Police would also like Wellingtonians to be mindful of where things are situated on their property. If items such as ladders or outdoor furniture have been moved, particularly from where they are normally situated, to against a building wall, this might be a sign that someone uninvited has been on your property. We want to hear about those situations.”
If anyone has any information regarding suspicious behaviour in Thorndon, Kelburn or Aro Valley they should contact Wellington Police on (04) 381 2198.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
For more information contact Kevin Sinnott on 021 192 2917