Shoplifters go on spree

Wednesday, March 26

A 20-year-old man was found to be driving while forbidden and his car was impounded.

Matamata was targeted by professional shoplifters. Two women entered a local surf shop and took a number of items. When a staff member confronted them and took back the items, they became verbally abusive then left. It was later discovered they had got away with more items. They had also been into a number of other stores and stolen clothing from the Red Cross store. Police believe they also targeted stores in Morrinsville. They were driving a green Subaru Legacy station wagon. Camera footage from the surf shop helped police to identify two Hamilton women, who are known to police. Hamilton police are following up.

A 25-year-old woman was found to be driving while suspended and her car was impounded.

Friday, March 28

A 19-year-old man was stopped for speeding on Mangawhero Rd and had his licence suspended for three months for excess demerit points.

Police attended the burglary of a McNab Rd property in Te Poi. A television, laptop and a toolbox were taken.

Police were called to a disorder incident on Matai Ave after multiple reports of people fighting on the street. It appears a dispute between neighbours had escalated into a physical altercation. A 46-year-old Matamata man was taken by ambulance to Pohlen Hospital for a checkup but was found to have no serious injuries. Inquiries are been made with two sisters who live next door to the man.

Saturday, March 29

A 43-year-old Mount Maunganui man was pulled over and found to have an extremely high breath alcohol level. It was so high that his licence was automatically taken and he was forbidden to drive. Of concern to police was the fact the man had driven here from Mount Maunganui.

A 20-year-old man had his licence suspended for excess demerit points.

Police were called to a rubbish bin on fire in the middle of the Matamata College school field about 10.30pm. Officers put the fire out.

Overnight, a workshop on State Highway 27 in Okoroire was broken into and various tools stolen. Padlocks securing a motorbike had been removed but the bike was not taken. Police suspect the offender may have been disturbed.

: Vegetation bridge.

fire, Pukemoremore

Saturday, March 29

: Medical call. : Medical call

Sunday, March 30

Rd, Cam- : Medical call. : Medical call. : Motor vehicle accident, State Highway 29. No one hurt.

Monday, March 31

: Sprinkler activation, Country Lodge.