Police say three offenders smashed cabinets before fleeing with stolen goods. Video / Supplied
Two teenagers have been arrested over an aggravated robbery on Auckland’s North Shore where a masked trio stormed a shop, smashed cabinets, and made off in a stolen car.
The trio was allegedly armed when it targeted a pawnbroker on Mokoia Rd in Birkenhead, opposite Highbury shoppingcentre, on October 1. Police said the weapons were not firearms.
Police have charged a 16-year-old with aggravated robbery and arrested an 18-year-old who was due in the Hamilton District Court later today.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Renfree said police may lay more charges and make more arrests. The 16-year-old was taken in after officers searched properties around Counties Manukau last week.
“We’re incredibly pleased with the progress made by the team, however, this investigation remains ongoing,” Renfree said.
“Police take this sort of offending very seriously and will continue to hold offenders to account.”
Two offenders carrying four bags of items could be seen running towards a white vehicle parked on the side of the road.
He said “the financial loss of the vehicle, potential damage to personal property, and the expenses associated with temporary transport and possible insurance issues” were significant for the victims.
“The second stolen car was located abandoned in Potter Ave, Northcote, and it is believed the offenders left ... in a third stolen car,” the spokesman said.
If you can help police with information, call 105 and quote file number 251001/7961. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Raphael Franks is an Auckland-based reporter who covers business, breaking news and local stories from Tāmaki Makaurau. He joined the Herald as a Te Rito cadet in 2022.
