Police Notebook: Burglaries across Rotorua are still high

The crime prevention unit has done some great work this week, say Rotorua police.

The following incidents were reported to Rotorua police during the past few days:

Number of widespread burglaries still high
Rotorua police area prevention manager Inspector Brendon Keenan said it had been a busy week for burglaries with 15 in the past seven days.

"These are quite widespread in terms of their locations.

"From Owhata right across to the other side of town."

He said of those a lot were from commercial properties.

"This is a good reminder to commercial business owners to keep things locked and secure."

The thefts included a set of keys being taken from inside a property in Glenholme on Friday night while the occupants were sleeping.

A car was then stolen from the driveway without anyone seeing or hearing anything.

Two puppies were stolen from a property in Pukehangi and an attempt was made to sell them on Facebook.

The listing was seen by a member of the public and the puppies have since been returned.

Total offences remain low
There were a total of 179 offences this week, which is a small increase on last week.

"The trend is still thefts, of cars, from cars and from property," Keenan said.

The total offences include assaults, burglaries, thefts and sexual offences.

Over the week there were 72 reports of domestic violence and the road policing unit has taken enforcement measures on more than 180 vehicles over the past week.

High number of water-heater thefts
Since January 3 there has been a spate of water-heater thefts in Rotorua, Keenan said.

The hot-water systems, often known as Califonts, are used mainly in commercial buildings.

A water-heating system similar to those that are being stolen. Photo / Supplied

"There are no specific areas, but it appears the offender has some knowledge of how to remove them properly.

"They possibly work in the building or construction industry."

So far the systems have gone missing from the Puketawhero League Club, Oil Intel, a new build in Owhata, the Geyser City Squash Club, Grange Spa, a residential property in Fenton Park and NZ Pizza.

Great catch for crime prevention unit
Keenan said it was a good weekend for the crime prevention unit.

"Two people were arrested that were wanted by police.

"The team were focused on getting both and it was a great job by them on Sunday."

Outstanding vehicles
A grey 1994 Toyota Hilux, registration KKD911, taken from Haupapa St.

A green 1994 Nissan Sunny, registration XD9444, taken from Manuka Cres, Hillcrest.

A gold 1997 Nissan Serena, registration DCU91, taken from Clinkard Ave, Glenholme.

A silver 2017 Titan 10x6 trailer, registration 6L112, taken from View Rd, Mangakakahi.

A silver 2005 Prescott trailer, registration F566J, taken from Lake Rd, Mangakakahi.

A silver 1999 Ford Courier, registration XR7669, taken from the Blue Lake reserve.

A grey 1989 Mazda Familia, registration ST8883, taken from Uta St, Utuhina.

A licence plate, registration 1MSOLD, taken from Fenton St.