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The recent spate of serious incidents, including an arson at Sunflour Café, and ramraids at Shoreward and Boss Burger in the Ōrewa CBD has prompted Waitemata North policing district to launch a dedicated operation into the incidents.
Named Operation Governor, new Waitemata North Area Commander Inspector John Thornley says an investigation team is making progress.
“Our investigation team has done an extensive canvas and made good progress, gathering everything there is to gather,” Inspector Thornley says. “We are actively working on what’s happening there and we will be looking to bring to account anybody involved.”
At this stage, however, Inspector Thornley is unable to say if the incidents are linked.
“We’re not ruling anything out. It’s a wide enquiry to get to the core of what’s happening.”
However, he strongly encourages anyone who has witnessed anything or has knowledge of anything relating to the case to contact the police via the 105 call line.
Ōrewa police will also be dedicating additional resources, especially through the busier summer months, he says. That includes increased foot and vehicle patrols and working with local hospitality venues and business associations to ensure the centres are as safe as they can be.
When it comes to crime prevention, Inspector Thornley says as crimes such as car theft and burglaries tend to be opportunistic, the public can help reduce them through increased security measures.
“Secure your vehicle and property, keep those valuable items out of sight, and use quality locks and alarms. Small security measures go a long way with those types of crimes.”
He was also supportive of increased CCTV usage in the area.
“Technology is moving very fast and does present some valuable opportunities to support prevention activity. The more eyes and ears, both through CCTV and people calling us when they see stuff, all add up to police having more opportunities to prevent crime or hold people to account. CCTV is a deterrent as well – I’d be keen to look at optimising what the community can do with technology.”
He says a positive relationship with the local community is also a major contributor to crime prevention.
“Our purpose is to ensure everyone feels safe, so we need the community to assist us with that. We need the eyes and ears of everybody to support our work and we do enjoy a really engaged relationship with the community. We look for that to continue into these warmer months.”
