Waitakere Police are investigating the home invasion of an elderly couple in New Lynn on Sunday morning, and are appealing to the public for help.
At around 6.45am, the couple were woken by two men who had forced their way into the house.
The men demanded money and jewellery. One of the men then held a crow bar towards the couple and stood guard over them in their bedroom, as the other man went through the house looking for things to steal.
A short time later the offenders fled, taking several small items with them, some of which had great sentimental value to the victims.
One of those items was a distinctive jacket that belonged to the elderly man, who is a war veteran. The beige-coloured casual jacket has no collar, and has an elastic waist and wrist bands. It's described as having a Hawaiian name on the left breast side, with an emblem next to the name.
Pinned to the left breast side of the jacket was a War Veteran badge (pictured) that was awarded to the gentleman in 2006 by the Prime Minister at the time, Helen Clark. The badge is gold and blue and says 'Veteran".
Detective Sergeant Eugene Pickett says anyone who recognises the distinctive jacket or the Veteran badge is asked to contact Police.
"This was an incredibly frightening ordeal, in the very place where the couple should have been able to feel safe. Not only has their home been invaded, but things that meant a great deal to them, like the gentleman's war pin, have been stolen from them and they are very shaken."
"Someone out there may know or suspect who has done this and we would appeal to the conscience of anyone with information that could help us - how would you feel if this was your relatives?"
The couple were not physically harmed and are now being supported by Victim Support.
The offenders left the scene in a vehicle described as a red, mid 80's model, four-door car.
They are described as the following:
1. Maori or Pacific Islander
Stocky/fat build
Aged in his mid 20's to mid 30's
Softly spoken
2. Maori or Pacific Islander
Slim build
Aged in his mid 20's to mid 30's
Anyone who can provide information is asked to call Detective Sergeant Eugene Pickett, Waitakere Police on 09 213 8049.
Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Beth Bates/Waitemata Police
021 192 1243
