More than 150 offenders arrested across Lower North Island in proactive policing operation

More than 150 offenders across the lower North Island have been arrested in an operation targeting known drug dealers, burglars and receivers of stolen property, in an effort to protect communities from crime this festive season.

Lower North Detective Superintendent Paul Kench says over the past ten days, Police staff across Eastern, Central and Wellington Districts have made more than 150 arrests, executed a large number of search warrants and recovered stolen property, firearms, cash and drugs.

"Those arrested face a variety of charges including possession of cannabis for supply, cultivation of cannabis, unlawful possession of a firearm, burglary, receiving and aggravated robbery."

Detective Superintendent Kench says Police know that burglary goes hand in hand with drug offending. People steal and sell stolen property to fund drug habits and pay off drug debts.

"Operation Safe Home has sent a strong message to criminals that Police are serious about proactively detecting, investigating and resolving crime, particularly burglary and drug offending."

Across the South Island, Police in Tasman District have had a focus on property seizure warrants, reparation and outstanding fines. Greymouth Police seized 13 vehicles and actioned more than $50,000 worth of outstanding fines.

In Canterbury, Police have contributed to Operation Safe Home and the general themes of resolving crime, apprehending offenders and high visibility through their current alcohol operation which has 14 dedicated staff, and through the deployment of their 56 prevention staff on a weekly basis. Their daily tasking process enables warrants to arrest to be prioritised and actioned.

In the build up to the busy season, Police in Southern District have conducted a series of high visibility, all-of-station operation days, to reinforce messages around prevention, keeping safe, road enforcement and safe driving over the festive season.

More than 100 arrests were made in Central District, with 45 of those people wanted to arrest on outstanding warrants.

As a preventative measure, Police across Wellington District visited more than 100 people who had been charged with burglary in the past six months and provided advice to nearly 60 other people, who had been repeat victims of burglary in recent times.

"Everyone has the right to be safe and feel safe this festive season. We've lowered the chances of people becoming victims of crime, such as burglary, but there are some simple things people can do though to protect their homes and their possessions if they're heading away over the holiday season."

Paul Kench says criminals will take any opportunity to get into your home and steal your possessions - don't give them the opportunity to.

"If you're heading away this holiday season, ask a neighbour to clear your letterbox. If a burglar thinks you're at home they are less likely to attempt a break-in."

For more crime prevention and safety tips, go to the New Zealand Police website:
http://www.police.govt.nz/protecting-your-stuff