Waikato Police have made a number of arrests in relation to burglaries where vehicles have been used to gain entry to primarily commercial premises across the district.
In the past week Waikato Police have arrested six people in relation to the offending.
Two men, aged 18 and 22, have been remanded in custody to reappear on Monday 12 July. Four youths are before the Youth Court.
Those arrested, from Waikato and Auckland, are facing a range of charges including burglary, unlawful taking of motor vehicles, shoplifting and receiving stolen property.
“We believe a particular group has been acting in a coordinated effort to steal multiple vehicles and then go on to commit these extremely destructive burglaries where they drive a stolen car into a premises to gain entry, steal property and flee to other waiting vehicles,” Detective Sergeant Ben Norman says.
“On occasions they are committing multiple burglaries in one night, often unfortunately targeting the same victims of previous incidents.
“These are typically owner-operator businesses who suffer a financial impact, with a loss of property and stock, and extensive damage that often means there are unable to open the next trading day.
“It also affects their sense of personal safety in their business.
“Police have been working tirelessly to identify those responsible and put them before the courts. Others are believed to be involved and we are committed to locating and holding them to account.
“This offending is thought to be linked to an increase in vehicle thefts, particularly Mazda Demios and Atenzas, around the Waikato area.
“We encourage owners of these types of vehicles to take extra precautions by ensuring their vehicles are locked, secured with steering locks or immobiliser alarms and parked in secure or well-lit places.
“If anyone in the community sees anything suspicious, including potentially stolen items being on-sold on social media, please contact Police via 105.
“It’s important we all remain vigilant to help ensure the safety and security of our local retailers and the whole community.”
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre