Eight gas water heaters seized as woman arrested in Papakura

A woman was arrested after police found eight gas califonts and 45kg gas bottles at a Arimu Rd property.

A South Auckland woman has been arrested after allegedly stealing eight gas water heaters from people’s homes.

Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Nelson, of Counties Manukau South CIB, said police suspected stolen property from a recent burglary was being stored at an Arimu Rd property in Papakura.

“On Wednesday, the Counties Manukau South Tactical Crime Unit executed a search warrant at an Arimu Rd address and located a range of stolen items.

“Among the items recovered were eight gas califonts (compact water heating systems) and a number of 45kg gas bottles.”

Police said a woman at the property was arrested without incident.

Five of the gas water heaters were linked to a recent burglary in Papakura, as the owner had recorded the serial numbers and provided them to police.

The gas water heaters were returned, with police working to identify the owners of the remaining items.

Nelson said the recovered items are frequently targeted by thieves, with this case being a timely reminder for the public to keep a record of their property.

“Record the serial numbers of tools and valuable items, or mark these with an identifier that can be traced to your property.

“This can help police return your items if they’re stolen by thieves.”

A 44-year-old woman will appear in Papakura District Court on May 28, charged with burglary.