Thieves targeting rural Tararua properties have got away with a large haul of items, including samurai swords, and police are warning rural residents to be alert.
Constable Karen Le Sueur of Pahiatua said that over the past two weeks there had been a number of burglaries and thefts from rural addresses in the Woodville area.
Items stolen included televisions, computers, gaming consoles and a transport trailer.
"Of particular note are three ornamental samurai swords, stolen from one address," Ms Le Sueur said.
The swords range in length from 40cm to 70cm and all have black scabbards, with purple velvet material wrapped around the handles.
"We're asking rural residents to keep an eye on each others' property and report any people or vehicles which look out of place," Ms Le Sueur said.
"For example, if you see a strange vehicle up your neighbour's driveway, or any people walking around properties who don't have permission to be there, call the police immediately."
Ms Le Sueur said it was also important for property owners to secure their premises, locking all doors and windows and taking keys out of any parked motor vehicles and farm vehicles.
"It is also important to record serial numbers of household items of value. The best way to do this is to write them down or to keep sales receipts or dockets," Ms Le Sueur said.
"This greatly assists police in the recovery of stolen goods."
For more information, visit Operation SNAP at www.snap.org.nz.
If you have any information about stolen items, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111, Constable Karen Le Sueur on 06 210 7273 or Constable Chris Wakelin on 06 376 1052.
- By Christine McKay of the Hawke's Bay Today
