Nine-year-old among five allegedly caught in fleeing stolen vehicle

A nine-year-old is one of five youths who were allegedly caught up in a fleeing driver incident in a stolen vehicle in Auckland's Manukau last night.

Police said just after 7.30pm they observed a group of youths inside a vehicle travelling through Takanini.

Counties Manukau central area prevention manager Inspector Mark Chivers said inquiries confirmed the vehicle was stolen.

"Police have signalled for the vehicle to stop but it has failed to do so and fled from police.

"The Police Air Support Unit has responded quickly, providing commentary to staff on the ground.

"The vehicle has then travelled into Manurewa, where a member of the public has allegedly been struck.

"Incredibly, and thankfully, they were unharmed."

Chivers said the vehicle stopped on Seward Place and three rear passengers got out and fled on foot.

"The vehicle was then followed by Eagle to Burbank Rd where it stopped and the driver and passenger got out and entered a property.

"All five were quickly taken into custody without further incident.

"It is incredibly fortunate no one was seriously injured as a result of this incident."

The youths, aged between nine and 13, were all referred to Youth Aid Services.