Two people have been arrested after allegedly stealing $20,000 worth of Lego from multiple Auckland retailers.
Sergeant Karen Tabb said the shoplifting has been taking place at stores across the region in recent months.
“In each instance, the alleged thieves brazenly created a diversion in the store by setting off the fire alarm.”
This month police searched a property in Māngere where a man and a woman were found along with some of the allegedly stolen property.
Tabb said police have charged a 45-year-old woman and a 34-year-old man with 30 counts of shoplifting.
The pair will also face charges under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act.
“This is an excellent outcome and the number of charges laid reflect the brazen nature of this alleged offending.
“Police will continue to target prolific offending against retail businesses in our communities.”
The pair remain before the Manukau District Court.
SHARE ME