It was a family affair of the law-breaking kind at a supermarket in Highland Park, where more than $16,000 of groceries were allegedly stolen.
But quick action from staff, who contacted Police while the alleged offenders were busy unloading their free haul, meant Police were on the scene within minutes.
“At around 4.20pm on Sunday, Police received a report of a group of three people who had allegedly left the supermarket without paying,” Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rakana Cook, says.
“Customers had alerted staff members to the theft after seeing them walk out without paying and load their vehicles with unpaid groceries.
“Police arrived at about 4.30pm and witnessed the trio walking out with another trolley load of items.”
Inspector Cook says two siblings were arrested attempting to leave the area on foot.
“A third person, a son of one of the other’s arrest, was taken into custody after being stopped a short distance away with a carload of groceries.
“Thanks to the community who quickly contacted 111, we were able to bring this matter to a swift conclusion.
“I would like to acknowledge everyone’s vigilance in reporting this offending to us, so we could respond,” Inspector Rakana says.
It’s estimated the six trolleys worth of groceries were valued at more than $16,000.
A 35-year-old man will appear in Manukau District Court on 28 March charged with three counts of shoplifting.
A 25-year-old woman charged with one count of shoplifting will reappear in Manukau District Court on 15 April.
An 18-year-old will appear in Manukau District Court at a later date.
Police continue to encourage the public to report offending as it happens by calling 111.
Other matters can be reported after the fact by calling 105 or going online to https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105
ENDS.
Holly McKay/NZ Police