Five youths – including four aged between 11 and 13 – have been arrested following a string of robberies in Waikato overnight spanning from Cambridge to Waihi Beach.
A vehicle was stolen and multiple businesses were targeted during the over 100km round trip early this morning, with alcohol, cigarettes, lollies, and ice cream stolen from a liquor store, a petrol station, and superettes, police said.
Sergeant Mike Palmer said the spate of offending allegedly begun at a Cambridge liquor store shortly before 1am where the group gained entry and stole alcohol and cigarettes.
“The group carried on to a minimart in Morrinsville, attempting to ram-raid the premise and causing significant damage to the frontage of the building.”
He said they were unsuccessful due to steel bars on the door. The group then ditched the vehicle and allegedly stole another.
A third store – a petrol station in Waihi Beach – was broken into while they were in the second vehicle, Palmer said.
“Lollies, ice creams, and other inventory was taken.”
It was followed by a break-in at a superette in Katikati, where more alcohol was allegedly stolen, he said.
The stolen vehicle was spotted on the Tahuna-Paeroa Rd by police who signalled it to stop.
Palmer said the vehicle fled from police and was pursued towards Hamilton, where it was spiked just before Puketaha.
“Veering off into a paddock, the car finally came to a stop and the five offenders were taken into custody.”
He said his thoughts were with the multiple victims and businesses affected by the behaviour of those involved.
“We will not tolerate this behaviour and will take enforcement action where appropriate to keep our community safe.”
Four of the young people, aged between 11 and 13, have been referred to Youth Aid.
A 16-year-old is due to appear before the Hamilton Youth Court on multiple burglary, vehicle, and driving charges on July 1.
