The Wellington Police District Car Squad was established in February 2015 with a focus on organised criminal groups linked to vehicle crime. Thanks to their work, and that of the wider Wellington District Police staff, the number of thefts of vehicles have almost halved.
On Tuesday this week the team swung in to action again, executing two search warrants in relation to a number of vehicle thefts in recent weeks.
On arrival at a commercial garage in Seaview, Lower Hutt, Police discovered a stolen Mazda Bounty vehicle in the process of being dismantled (pictured).
Acting Detective Sergeant Nathan Smith from the District Car Squad said that a number of vehicles and vehicle parts, stolen between August and October from around the Wellington region, were recovered at the “chop shop”.
“We’re pleased that we’ve been able to recover a number of stolen vehicles and are following up on leads to locate the offenders in relation to this case,” said Det Sgt Smith.
“However, we want to nip this sort of offending in the bud and make it as difficult as possible for criminals to profit from stealing cars. We remind owners to lock and secure their vehicles at all times. Consider installing a car alarm or steering wheel lock and keep your vehicle in a locked garage whenever possible. Make sure you take all valuable items with you when you leave your car”.
If anyone has any information that may assist the District Car Squad with this investigation please contact Acting Detective Sergeant Nathan SMITH on (04) 381 2000 or information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
-ENDS-
