Waikato police arrest 11 in warrant crackdown, child assault charge laid

The one-day operation targeted offenders with active warrants to arrest in several Waikato towns, police said.

A police operation has netted 11 alleged offenders in Waikato including one accused of assaulting a child.

The one-day operation targeted offenders with active warrants to arrest in several Waikato towns, police said.

The warrants to arrest were for unrelated incidents in the Ngāruawāhia, Huntly, Te Awamutu, and Kihikihi areas, relating to shoplifting, theft, receiving stolen property, assaulting a child, burglary, unlawfully taking a motor vehicle, obtaining by deception, and driving with excess breath alcohol.

Six men and five women, between the ages of 21 and 59, are due to appear in court at a later date.

“A number of those arrested today have caused significant harm in our community, and this operation shows that police will not tolerate it,” Western Waikato Area Commander Inspector Karl Thornton said.

“Police are pleased with the outcomes of this operation, however, acknowledge the increased police presence may have caused concern within the community.

“Our whānau engagement team and Maori Pasifika Ethnic Services are out in the community to ensure those affected are provided with support moving forward.”

Police urge the public to contact police immediately on 111 if they see any unlawful or suspicious activity.

Information can also be reported after the fact, or in non-emergencies, via their 105 services, and anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.