Summer is coming, but unfortunately it's not just sun seekers looking to take advantage of the warm weather.
Waitematä Police are reminding the public to prevent themselves from becoming the target of burglars, while having barbecues or sitting outside in the back yard.
Last Sunday, as an Orewa couple sat in their back yard, a man walked up their driveway. He saw them and asked a question about the neighbours, and then said he had the wrong house. Several minutes later though when the couple went inside to get something they found one of their wallets had been stolen.
"With daylight saving and the warmer weather, thousands of Kiwi's will be in this same situation, and we want to prevent anyone else from becoming a victim of this type of crime" says Inspector Rob Cochrane, Acting Prevention Manager, Waitematä Police.
"If you're going to be in the back yard, doing gardening, or work around the house, always make sure you've locked the front door and any windows that may be easily accessible" says Inspector Cochrane.
Police also advise the following;
- Lock all garden sheds and garages.
- Sensor lights are an excellent way of deterring would-be thieves.
- Never write personal details on keys.
- Tell your neighbours if you are going away.
The offender who stole the property in Orewa is described as the following;
- 177 cms tall
- 25-30 years old
- Maori or Pacific Islander
- Large build
- Clean-shaven
- Wearing a white baseball cap
- The stolen wallet was quite distinctive and was embossed with helicopters.
Anyone with information should call the Orewa Police on 09 426 2646 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously on (0800 555 111)
ENDS
Issued by Beth Bates/Waitemata District
0274 752 518