Four youths arrested after attempted carjacking in Hamilton

Waikato Police have apprehended four youths following a dramatic series of events in Hamilton on Saturday afternoon, culminating in an attempted carjacking.

The incident began around midday when an officer spotted a suspicious Toyota Corolla on Cobham Drive. The vehicle had a smashed quarterlight window, and its four occupants were wearing masks and gloves.

Upon investigation, Police confirmed the car had been reported stolen. A plan was promptly devised to intercept the vehicle.

Around 1:20 PM, officers located the Corolla as it turned onto Pukete Road. When signalled to stop, the driver allegedly attempted to evade Police. However, quick thinking and precise coordination led to the car being spiked within 30 seconds. The vehicle continued briefly through Totara Drive and Sandwich Road before coming to a stop on Te Rapa Road, between Northway Street and Bryant Road.

As the occupants fled on foot, the driver allegedly attempted to carjack another vehicle, wielding a machete. Fortunately, the member of the public managed to drive away unharmed.

Police swiftly arrested three of the suspects nearby, with the fourth being apprehended by a Police dog unit shortly after.

Officers recovered several weapons, including knives, machetes, and balaclavas. Investigations are ongoing to determine if the youths are linked to recent car thefts and aggravated robberies in the area.

A 15-year-old faces multiple charges, including escaping custody, aggravated failure to stop, dangerous driving, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, and possession of an offensive weapon. Two other 15-year-olds and a 16-year-old have been charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

Three of the suspects will appear in Hamilton Youth Court on Monday, with the fourth scheduled for Wednesday.

“As the case is before the court, we are unable to provide further comment,” said Detective Inspector Graham Pitkethley.