Alleged thief jumps into Whangārei river after group stash road signs in vehicles

An attempt to escape police turned into an early morning swim in the Hātea River for one man. Photo / NZME

A man allegedly attempted to escape police by jumping into Whangārei’s Hātea River early today.

Police were called to Rathbone St about 3.40am after reports a group of allegedly intoxicated men were damaging property.

Whangārei area prevention manager Senior Sergeant Dave Wilkinson said the group of six scattered when a member of the public spotted them.

As they headed toward the Town Basin, they allegedly stole several roadworks signs, stashing them in their vehicles.

Wilkinson said police arrived and arrested three men, while the others fled on foot.

“Two men were quickly located, while a third attempted to evade officers by jumping into the Hātea River,” Wilkinson said.

The soaked suspect returned to shore and was arrested.

A 19-year-old man and three 18-year-olds were charged with theft and would appear in Whangārei District Court on April 28.

Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.