Hamilton Police are crediting the actions of residents in the east of the City after their assistance in apprehending a group of burglars that included foot and cycle pursuits and recording images of the offenders.
City Commander, Inspector Greg Nicholls, said Police were called to Alderson Rd in Fairview Downs about 1.15pm on Saturday after reports from neighbours that a home was being broken into.
"Callers reported seeing two young males standing outside a property keeping a lookout while two others broke into the house via a sliding door.
"Other neighbours also called 111 and when confronted the four took off with a number of residents hot on their heels including one following them on a pushbike as they fled towards Tramway Rd."
Mr Nicholls said that when responding Police arrived, several members of the public were able to indicate to them the direction the offenders had fled, leading to the arrest of three a short time later.
"Then, on checking still and video images Police were able to identify the fourth offender who was arrested the next day. The assistance provided by the public in this matter speaks volumes for the community spirit in this area and just how effective the timely relaying of information can be.
"It should also be a warning to dishonesty offenders just how fed up residents are getting of burglars targeting their homes and that by working with Police we can prevent this type of activity occurring."
As a result of the arrests, four males aged 15-18-years-old face a variety of burglary related charges while a 17-year-old linked to the group wanted in relation to a short pursuit in the area the night before has also been identified.
"Further enquiries are continuing with a number of other persons of interest having been identified in relation to several other burglaries in the east of the city.
"In reviewing the assistance provided I think it appropriate that we acknowledge the assistance of the local residents while at the same time encouraging them to build on their success by forming Neighbourhood Support Groups and recording the serial numbers of their valuables as part of Operation SNAP."
Mr Nicholls said by taking such actions you not only target harden your own home but make your neighbourhood less attractive to opportunist burglars looking for easy pickings.
"And, just like these people did in the weekend, if you see something- do something, ring 111."
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