Jewellery stolen, then thrown from getaway car

Two suspected thieves threw jewellery from their getaway car - before being caught by police in the vehicle.

A police media spokeswoman said police received a call about 3.15am on Friday from a neighbour who saw the incident unfold at Raumati South, north of Wellington.

The neighbour saw them putting items into a van, including jewellery, coins and other items, the spokeswoman said.

The offenders were disturbed and fled the scene while the 111 call was being made. The neighbour gave police a detailed description of the 4 x 4 vehicle.

The dark-coloured vehicle was found with the offenders inside, about 3.20am, she said.

Police found jewellery strewn all over the roadside, on Clunie Avenue.

‘‘Thanks to a fast response and information provided by the public, we’ve been able to get hold of these two offenders.’’

The men, aged 23 and 24, were arrested for burglary, and taken to the Kapiti Police Station.

They were to appear in Porirua District Court.

Sergeant Nathan Smith said the incident was an ‘‘excellent example’’ of neighbours looking out for one another.

‘‘As a result of the neighbour’s detailed report, we were able to apprehend these offenders and prevent them from targeting other homes,’’ Smith said.