Source: New Zealand Police
A team tackling retail crime across some south Auckland town centres have clocked up, and locked up, some promising numbers in the past year.
In July 2024, the Counties Manukau South Community Engagement Team noticed that high rates of retail offending were contributing to a general sense of unease among shoppers and business owners alike.
This was particularly the case in the busy town centres across Takanini, Papakura and Pukekohe.
In the past financial year, the team has arrested 67 people, resulting in 741 retail crime charges and $363,232.20 worth of stolen property recovered.
Sergeant Phill Moody says a series of coordinated efforts and multiple investigations targeting individuals and small groups of offenders has been in motion.
“Our team has also spent a considerable amount of time engaging with business associations, big retail stores and stand-alone local retailers to understand the issues and provide reassurance.
“I’m extremely proud of the team and the great results they have achieved.”
Sergeant Moody says technology like CCTV has also played a key role, as well as the increase in businesses reporting thefts.
“Our team remain actively engaged with retailers, business associations, and the National Retail Investigation Support Unit and we are committed to holding these offenders to account.”
“It takes all of us to keep our communities safe, and we acknowledge retailers who continue to report matters to us.”
If you see any unlawful or suspicious activity, please contact Police.
If it is happening now, or you have immediate concerns for you or someone else’s safety, call 111.
Information after the fact or in non-emergencies can be reported online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Make a Report” or by calling 105.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS.
Holly McKay/NZ Police
