Five people have been arrested following a series of burglaries in the Ōpōtiki district, with Police recovering stolen vehicles and other property taken during the offending.
Eastern Bay of Plenty Police said a coordinated investigation was launched within days of a residential burglary at Waiotahi, where a home was ransacked and several vehicles stolen.
The investigation led to suspects being identified and search warrants being carried out across the Ōpōtiki district.
Police recovered several items of stolen property, including a Mercedes-Benz and a Ford Falcon. Multiple offenders were arrested and appeared in court facing burglary and related charges.
Inspector Phil Gillbanks, Prevention Manager for Eastern Bay of Plenty Police, praised frontline staff for their work throughout the investigation.
“Burglary is an extremely invasive crime. Beyond the financial loss, it leaves victims feeling violated and unsafe in their own homes,” he said.
“Bringing offenders before the courts and recovering stolen property is incredibly important for victims and for the wider community.”
Gillbanks said the speed of the investigation reflected the teamwork and commitment of officers involved.
“From initial scene examinations and victim enquiries through to intelligence gathering, search warrants, vehicle stops, arrests and interviews, staff remained focused on identifying those responsible and holding them to account,” he said.
“The successful outcome highlights the commitment of Ōpōtiki Police to keeping the community safe.”
Police confirmed five people had been arrested, with Police opposing bail. Stolen property has also been returned to its rightful owners, providing some relief for those affected.
Police are urging residents to report suspicious activity promptly and share any information that could assist investigations.
The arrests and recovery of stolen property are expected to provide reassurance to victims and the wider Ōpōtiki community following the burglaries.
Police said the investigation demonstrates the importance of thorough investigative work and coordinated frontline responses in holding alleged offenders accountable.
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