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A major Police response in Pukekohe has led to the arrest of three youths wanted in connection with recent aggravated robberies across Auckland and Napier.
The operation unfolded on the afternoon of February 12, with Police deploying significant resources across the township after an off-duty officer spotted a suspicious group near the Michael Hill jewellery store.
Detective Inspector Karen Bright, of Counties Manukau CIB, said one member of the group was sought in relation to aggravated robberies at a Michael Hill store in Napier on February 3 and a Papatoetoe bar on February 10.
“The group were acting suspiciously near the chain’s Pukekohe store before leaving in a vehicle,” Bright said.
“Upon realising the risk that a further robbery may be imminent, additional Police resources were deployed into the township, on the ground and in the air. Our staff were highly visible and there was nowhere this group could go.”
Eagle helicopter and public tip-off
Police tracked the vehicle of interest after it was spotted on Manukau Road, with the Police Eagle helicopter assisting the operation.
The vehicle was later abandoned, prompting a search of the surrounding area.
“A short time later, a suspicious activity report came in where a group of young people were seen changing their clothes at a nearby high school,” Bright said.
Officers located two youths at the scene while Eagle staff spotted two others attempting to leave the area on foot. All were arrested after a short pursuit on Harris Street.
Youths charged
Following the arrests, the Counties Manukau Major Crime Team worked overnight to lay charges.
- A 17-year-old male has been charged with two counts of aggravated robbery relating to the Napier and Papatoetoe incidents, as well as four counts of unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.
- A 15-year-old male has been charged with aggravated robbery over the Papatoetoe incident.
- Another 17-year-old male has been charged with aggravated robbery over an incident at a Takanini vape store on January 23, along with several vehicle-related charges.
Bright praised the coordinated response.
“This is an outstanding result by every single staff member involved,” she said.
“Between a highly visible Police response and partnerships with retailers, we have prevented further offending from taking place.”
All three youths are due to appear in the Manukau Youth Court.
