Police actively looking for third offender following aggravated robbery in Napier
Two youths have been arrested and charged, and police are actively searching for the third offender in relation to vehicle theft, aggravated robbery and theft of petrol and alcohol over the weekend.
Detective Senior Sergeant James Keene says thanks to the vigilance of staff across the district Police were able to track down the offenders and arrest them.
However, police would like to hear from anyone who may be able to assist with their ongoing enquiries to identify and locate the remaining offender and the stolen vehicle, a 2009 silver Honda Fit.
Keene said the alleged offenders first came to the attention of police overnight on Friday, September 17, when several vehicles were reported stolen from Marewa and Greenmeadows in Napier.
At around 4am, a Taradale woman was in her vehicle heading to work when she discovered two people breaking into her partner’s ute on Avondale Road.
The 56-year-old woman got out of her vehicle to confront the pair, but was threatened by one of the offenders and her vehicle was stolen.
"A short time later, Police received reports of some concerning driving behaviour in Tamatea. A car is reported to have crashed through a fence, and the occupant was picked up by the vehicle allegedly stolen on Avondale Road," Keene said.
"The stolen vehicle is believed to be involved in petrol drive-offs, alcohol thefts and shoplifting reported in Wairoa and Gisborne on Saturday morning."
At around 3:30pm on Saturday, the vehicle was seen by staff in Wairoa. However, attempts to stop the vehicle were unsuccessful.
At around 11pm Police identified two people fitting the descriptions of the offenders and arrested them.
The two arrested offenders are due to appear in Napier Youth Court on September 30, facing charges relating to aggravated robbery and theft.
Keene says thanks to the vigilance of staff across the district Police were able to track down the offenders and arrest them.
“The arrests were a result of a great coordinated effort from a wide range of staff, including frontline staff in Napier, Wairoa and Gisborne, our District Command Centre, youth and custody staff, our dog section, gang focus unit, and scene of crime officers.
“The arrests demonstrate Police commitment to holding those responsible for dishonest offending to account, but we continue to ask for the public’s help.
“Please be vigilant with the security of your home, business and vehicles, and if you see anything suspicious, contact 111 immediately.
"We also urge motorists not to leave valuables in their vehicles, to ensure their vehicles are locked and parked in well-lit areas, and if possible out of sight from the road."
Anyone who can assist police is urged to contact 105 and quote file number 210918/6152.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
