Police have arrested three people following an aggravated robbery in Tuakau Saturday morning, that was followed by a significant Police response across the Auckland and Waikato regions.
At around 6.10am, Police were called to a premises on George Street after reports that three offenders had entered the store, threatened staff with weapons, assaulted a shopkeeper, and stolen a quantity of items before fleeing the scene in a vehicle.
While the shopkeeper was not physically injured, the incident was understandably distressing.
“Police quickly located the vehicle, with assistance from the Police Eagle helicopter, and monitored its movements as it travelled through Auckland. During the incident, the offenders abandoned their vehicle and stole another vehicle from members of the public”, said Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward.
“Thankfully, the two victims involved in the vehicle theft were not injured, although they remain shaken by the experience and are being supported by Police.
“Police subsequently tracked the vehicle as it travelled into the Waikato district, where it came to a stop near Sutherlands Lane in Hunty shortly before 8am.
“All three occupants were taken into custody, and they are due to appear in Manukau District Court on Monday facing a number of charges.
“Police acknowledge the impact this offending has had on the victims and thank members of the public who were affected by the incident for their cooperation, and all those who called us while the incident was unfolding.
“As the matter is now before the court, Police are unable to comment further.”
