Two men have been arrested after police searched Palmerston North properties while investigating a spike in pot plant thefts.
The searches and arrests were part of an inquiry police dubbed "Operation Hotpot".
The Palmerston North CIB and Tactical Crime Unit kicked off the operation following an increase in burglaries targeting garden pots and ornaments in the Kelvin Grove and Cloverlea suburbs of Palmerston North.
Two men were arrested yesterday after police executed "multiple" searches.
The men, aged 38 and 40, have been held in custody and were due to appear in the Palmerston North District Court today. They faced two and 16 charges of burglary, respectively.
“I think we can overlook the value of items we have on display in our gardens, but more importantly, the sentimental value that can be associated with them," Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thompson said.
"It was clear that many of the people who had these items stolen had been deeply affected.
"It is pleasing that we can bring this result to them.”
He thanked the officers involved in the operation and said they "dug deep" to find the missing ornaments.
"We are looking to reunite pots which have since been recovered in search warrants executed across Palmerston North, but which remain un-homed.
"If anyone recognises the items pictured as theirs, please contact Police on 105 and reference file number: 240514/11627.
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