Police across lower North Island take proactive approach to reducing crime

Police across the lower North Island have taken a proactive approach to targeting known burglars and criminals in an effort to protect people from becoming victims of crime this holiday season.

Lower North Detective Superintendent Paul Kench says more than 140 people have been arrested as part of Operation Safe Home carried out this week across the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Eastern, Central and Wellington Districts.

Those arrested face a variety of charges including dishonesty, firearms and drugs offences.

Detective Superintendent Kench says around a hundred search warrants have been executed and a large amount of stolen property and drugs have been recovered, including methamphetamine, cannabis and ecstasy.

"Police across the lower North also recovered a number of stolen vehicles, and even a ride-on lawn mower and a quad bike, firearms, ammunition and a taser."

Paul Kench says, "We hope Operation Safe Home has sent a strong message to criminals and communities that Police intend to continue taking a firm approach to proactively detecting, investigating and resolving offences, such as burglaries and drug offending in each District."

He says Police are committed to preventing crime before it happens and want to ensure people can be safe and feel safe this holiday season.

"Don't give thieves the opportunity to burgle your home this holiday season. Whilst Police across the lower North Island have reduced the opportunities for known burglars and criminals through Operation Safe Home, there are some simple things people can do to protect their homes and their possessions."

"If you're going away, make sure you have a neighbour or friend check your letterbox and keep an eye on your property. Securing windows and doors can make all the difference between being a victim of a burglary or not."

Detective Superintendent Kench says Police Districts across the Lower North will continue to work alongside each other in similar operations in the future to prevent crime and keep residents safe."

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