|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Waikato Police have charged three people in connection with a series of commercial burglaries involving the large-scale theft of copper, following an investigation that stretched across multiple districts.
Sergeant Michael Palmer of the Waikato Tactical Crime Unit said the probe began in August 2025, when officers were alerted to repeated break-ins at a Frankton commercial property.
Over several nights, reels of copper were allegedly taken, with investigators later tracing more than 200 kilograms of the stolen metal to on-selling activity in Auckland.
As the inquiry progressed, police executed a number of search warrants in the rural Gordonton and Cambridge areas.
Those searches resulted in the arrest of three individuals now before the courts.
Two women, aged 37 and 50, and a 44-year-old man have all been charged with burglary and are scheduled to reappear in the Hamilton District Court on December 17.
Palmer said the case underscored how valuable copper had become a target for organised theft, and highlighted the need for strong, layered security measures at commercial sites.
He advised businesses to ensure CCTV, alarms, and exterior perimeter protection were functioning and fit for purpose.
Police are urging members of the public to report suspicious behaviour around commercial or residential properties.
Incidents in progress should be reported via 111, while information after the fact can be lodged through the 105 service. Anonymous reports can also be made to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
