More patrols to curb burglaries
Burglaries are on the rise police are increasing patrols in Taupo’s trouble spots to curb the trend.
In the period July 12-19 there were 15 reported burglaries in Taupo. The week prior there were 11 burglaries.
Taupo Police Sergeant Phillip Edwards said the hardest hit suburb was Hilltop.
‘‘The Hilltop area remains a focus for police as we have had five burglaries in that area,’’ he said.
‘‘Property taken in these burglaries consists of two motor vehicles, one of which has been recovered, a mountain bike and personal belongings from vehicles.’’
The remaining 10 burglaries were scattered around the rest of Taupo.
Edwards said police will boost patrols in the area during at-risk times to restrict the movement of potential burglars and respond to calls quickly.
‘‘Staff will be deployed there during 9pm to 6am,’’ Edwards said.
‘‘There will be extra patrols and people are going to be stopped and questioned.
‘‘We’re sorry if this inconveniences anyone, but it needs to be done.’’
As well as additional patrols the tactical crime unit will be utilised to follow up on leads from cases.
‘‘Thieves reside in our community and could be a family member or mate who will have come into possession of property or money,’’ he said.
‘‘If this sounds like someone you know you can give us a call on 0800 555 111 and tell us their information without revealing your identity.’’
Edwards said this is one area where members of the public can be a big assistance by reporting any and all suspicious activity in the region.
‘‘Reports of suspicious people is gold for us,’’ he said.
‘‘We always say if something looks a little bit dodgy it probably is.
‘‘It might not seem like much but it can really help police put the jigsaw puzzle together and solve crimes.’’
Edwards encourages members of the public to join neighbourhood support groups and Taupo police will be happy to assist people set up groups in their area.
‘‘To join a neighbourhood support group, or for information on groups operating in your area please give us a bell on 07 376 1601,’’ Edwards said.