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Seven youths have been arrested in connection with a shoplifting incident on Friday.
Hamilton Police are now investigating whether the youths are linked to a series of alleged shoplifting and theft incidents during recent weeks.
The alleged offenders targeted a number of items, including a mobile phone and a knife at a shop on Te Rapa Road, police Inspector Hywel Jones confirms.
“Although the youths had left before police arrived, they did not get far. A quick and coordinated response led to the youths being located in a nearby carpark and they were taken into custody without incident.”
The alleged stolen items, including the mobile phone and knife, were discarded nearby and were recovered.
Retail crime has a significant impact, Jones adds.
“Retail crime is not a victimless offence. It affects businesses, staff, customers and the wider community. We will continue to work alongside our retail partners to hold offenders to account and ensure Hamilton remains a safe place to live, work and shop.”
The seven youths have been referred to Youth Aid.
