Think twice about that cheap laptop - police

Three laptops and a tablet were stolen during a burglary of a property. Photo / Thinkstock

Northlanders offered cheap laptops or computer tablets are being warned by police they may well be stolen - and buyers risk being charged with receiving stolen goods.

Northland police communications manager Sarah Kennett said a number of laptops and tablets were stolen during two burglaries this week.

Ms Kennett said laptops and computer tablets were highly desired by thieves as they were fairly easy to sell, but their loss could be devastating to the people who owned them.

"Often people put family photographs and other important personal information or documents on their laptops or tablets and their theft can be quite distressing for the owners," she said.

"They are easy to dispose of for the burglar and if people are offered a cheap laptop or tablet be wary because it may have been stolen, so call police straightaway."

She said people buying stolen property could potentially be charged with receiving stolen goods so it was best to check that an item was not stolen before buying it. "So don't take up the offer and just call us."

Three laptops and a tablet were stolen during a burglary of a property in The Centre, Waipu, between 11am and 2pm on Tuesday, Ms Kennett said. A silver Sony laptop, black HP laptop and black Toshiba laptop and silver HP tablet were taken.

Meanwhile, a resident of Wilkinson Ave, Kamo, left home at 5.45pm on Tuesday and on returning home at 10pm found it had been burgled.

Among the items stolen were three laptops - a black Samsung, navy blue Dell and black Dell - and two tablets - a white Acer 7.5 inch and black Tomson 10.5 inch. A quantity of spirits and wine was also taken.

Anybody with information about the burglaries, or who is offered cheap computers or tablets, can contact Whangarei police on 430 4500 or anonymously on Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111.