Dozen youths caught in Rotorua anti-burglary sweep

February 14, 2024

Twelve youths have been caught by a five-day operation targeting burglaries, youth and gang crime in Rotorua, police say.

The dozen young people allegedly committed a "range of offences" and were either charged or referred to Youth Aid.

Police warned that officers were looking at "continuing similar operations going forward".

The Rotorua arrests followed a rise in commercial burglaries at night, and "vehicle crime that is often associated with these burglaries," according to a police spokesperson.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Van Kempen said two people were arrested for allegedly committing multiple burglaries.

Seven stolen vehicles were also recovered.

“It was a huge success for Rotorua, and I have no doubt that a lot of crime was prevented as a result," he said in a media release.

District Commander Tim Anderson added: "If the public got to see what I did, they’d be just as blown away by our people’s professionalism and dedication."

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