Hamilton copper thefts: Police charge three after Frankton burglaries

In August, the Waikato Tactical Crime Unit became aware of a commercial property in Frankton, Hamilton, that had been the subject of multiple break-ins. Photo / NZME

Waikato police have arrested and charged three people in relation to commercial burglaries targeting large quantities of copper metal.

Sergeant Michael Palmer, of Waikato Tactical Crime Unit, said the arrests were made as part of an ongoing investigation.

In August, the unit became aware of a commercial property in Frankton, Hamilton, that had been the subject of multiple break-ins, Palmer said.

Over the course of a week, on several nights, reels of copper were stolen from the property.

The police investigation identified that over 200kg of copper had been allegedly on-sold in Auckland after the burglaries.

“Police carried out several search warrants in the rural Gordonton and Cambridge area, which has resulted in three people being arrested and charged,” Palmer said.

“This investigation highlighted the importance of quality, multi-layered security systems on commercial premises, including CCTV, alarm systems and outer perimeter measures.”

Two women, aged 37 and 50, and a 44-year-old man are all due to reappear in Hamilton District Court on December 17, charged with burglary.

Police urge the public to report any suspicious behaviour to police immediately on 111 if it is happening now, or 105 if it is after the fact.

Reports can also be made anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555111.