Christchurch Police have arrested five 14-year old boys after two cars were broken into overnight in Burwood.
In the first incident, residents at a Chartwell Street address called police at around 11.40pm after seeing three offenders attempting to break into their vehicle.
The resident disturbed the group and initially chased them as they made off along Chartwell Street.
Police patrols and dog units attended and tracked the group through Windsor School and the Clearvale Loop Walkway reserve.
The three youths were located hiding in bushes in St Paul's Place and were apprehended without incident.
Detective Senior Sergeant Corrie Parnell says a number of items, possibly stolen from other offences, were recovered, along with equipment likely to have been used in the break-ins.
In the second incident, at around 1.30am, a resident in Burwood Road disturbed a youth entering an unlocked ute parked in the driveway of the property.
The resident followed the offender and when police arrived shortly afterwards two youths were taken into custody. Nothing had been taken from the vehicle.
Detective Senior Sergeant Parnell says all five offenders will be referred to Police youth aid. It is possible the youths involved in the two incidents were known to each other, and may have been involved in other offending, he says.
"Police were pleased to be able to get quick arrests in these cases. What made the difference was that the residents contacted Police immediately - and we were able to get patrols and dog handlers into the area with positive results.
"We always urge people to report any incidents or suspicious activity immediately on 111 so that we have the best chance of apprehending the offenders.
"It is also a timely reminder to vehicle owners to make sure their vehicles are secure at all times. Even if your car is parked at home or up your driveway, or you're only away from it for a few minutes - keep it locked.
"And don't leave anything valuable in the car where it can be seen. Things like cellphones and laptops are a magnet for thieves.
"It is disturbing to see this type of activity being carried out by such young offenders - but unfortunately it is not unusual."
ENDS