Police urge public to call 111 after Papamoa prowler complaint

Police urge residents to call 111 if they see any suspicious behaviour in their neighbourhood. File/Photo

Bay police are asking for help the public's help to locate a prowler who was discovered peering into a Papamoa couple's home.

Senior Sergeant Deirdre O'Donnell said the pair noticed the man peering through their window at about 11.30pm on Wednesday and called police.

Police attended but the police dog and its handler were unable to locate the man, described as a Caucasian male of skinny build in his late 20s or early 30s.

Mrs O'Donnell said there had been a slight increase in burglaries and thefts from cars
in Papamoa and Mount Maunganui over the past few days.

It could not be discounted that the prowler was checking out the property, intending to commit a crime, she said.

"We urge anyone seeing anyone acting suspiciously or any suspicious behaviour at all to immediately call the police. People are not wasting our time as it's important to establish whether these activities are legitimate or a crime in progress."

Neighbourhood Support Papamoa co-ordinator Bruce Banks was unaware of the prowler incident but this week someone had tried to break into a home and a shed in the area about 1am on Tuesday.

Mr Banks said because police were flat out dealing with an armed robbery around the same time, they were unable to respond immediately to the attempted break-in but were still investigating the matter.

"I also urge anyone seeing anyone acting suspiciously, that includes particularly anyone lurking around properties to call 111," he said.

Mr Banks said joining the local Neighbourhood Support was key to helping police keep all neighbourhoods safe.

"It's not only a great way to get to know your neighbours but adds another set of eyes and ears in the fight to combat crime in your neighbourhood," he said.

Some ways Neighbourhood Support members help to combat crime :

- Tell each other when going on holiday or away overnight.
- Meet regularly to discuss common concerns.
- Notify each other of any suspicious activities
- Keep each other informed of criminal activity in the area.
- Offer support to any neighbours who have been victims.
- Notify police of any activity that threatens life or property.