Police are advising the public and building owners to be vigilant as thieves target important fire sprinkler system connections.
The warning comes as Police investigate a string of burglaries across parts of Auckland where metal couplings for Fire Sprinkler Inlets (FSI) at certain buildings are being stolen.
Inspector Dave Christoffersen, Area Commander for Counties Manukau West, says Police are aware of at least nine reports.
“These have occurred over recent weeks, primarily targeting commercial buildings after business hours and on weekends,” he says.
“So far this offending is localised to the Counties Manukau West and Auckland East area, however Police are working to establish if this offending is occurring in other communities.”
Police have today made one arrest, following a search warrant terminated by the Counties Manukau West Tactical Crime Unit.
The unit’s Acting Detective Sergeant Simon Kirby says: “We have recovered a number of stolen items at this property, including metal couplings allegedly stolen. Our enquiries are continuing.”
A 45-year-old man has so far been charged with two counts of burglary and was due to appear today in the Manukau District Court.
Building owners urged to be vigilant
Police are asking building owners to check their sites, particularly around important service accesses such as where the inlets are located and ensure they are correctly secured.
“We’re also asking the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity around buildings,” Inspector Christoffersen says.
“Police intelligence suggests offending is likely to occur between 7pm and 5am.”
Inspector Christoffersen says Police are continuing to investigate the burglaries and will work to hold any offending to account.
Police, Fire Protection Association NZ are concerned offenders are unnecessarily putting the public, firefighters and property at risk.
These couplings are essential to allow firefighters to boost the sprinkler system’s water supply, to ensure that any fire is brought effectively under control. When damage occurs to these fittings it limits the actions of firefighters to enter the building to effect rescues, effectively putting lives at risk.
How can you help?
If you see suspicious activity occurring at the time, please call 111 immediately.
Any information to assist Police enquiries can be reported online or by calling 105.
