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The SPCA shop on Seddon Street in Pukekohe has been targeted multiple times this year, leaving the store closed for some time after its front window and door were smashed following the last act of vandalism.
The shop was most recently vandalised on February 10 but prior to that it was hit twice in one week. Staff allege it has been targeted six times since the end of January.
Senior Sergeant Jeremy Steedman, Counties Manukau South Response Manager, said police received a report of wilful damage at a shop on Seddon Lane at about 8.54am on Thursday, January 29.
“Sometime after 5.30pm rocks were thrown at the front windows, breaking the glass,” Steedman said.
“This is the second report for this location this week, with a similar incident occurring on January 27. Enquiries are ongoing to identify those involved.”
A witness told the Franklin Times they were dining nearby when they saw “four young boys on bikes smashing up the windows” of the SPCA shop.
The witness said they did not believe it was safe to intervene. The Franklin Times understand that police have spoken with the witness as part of the investigation.
The next day, January 30, rocks still lay on the ground by the door of the shop where they had been thrown. Staff spent the day picking up glass inside.
Steedman said officers are aware of community speculation but need more information to progress the case.
“Police are working to establish the identities of those involved and need to hear from anyone who has information but has not yet spoken to us.”
SPCA Retail Regional Manager Gwen Stege said staff and volunteers were disappointed by the incident.
“Our store has been targeted again for now the sixth time since the 26th of January to the latest being the 10th of February. Police are continuing to investigate, but it’s pretty devastating for our staff and volunteers.”
She said there was extensive damage to the front of the store, which closed for several days after the incident.
“We want to thank the community and our volunteers for their support,” Stege said.
“To progress the investigation police need to hear from anyone who has information but has not yet spoken to us,” Steedman said.
“Please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz or call 105 and use the reference number 260130/6190.
“Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers online or by phone via 0800 555 111.”
