A police dog was injured in an attack by a pitbull while tracking burglars in Hamilton yesterday.
The dog required veterinary treatment to wounds, which were not life-threatening.
Hamilton police Senior Sergeant Karl Thornton said the dog and handler had been called in after a cordon was established in the suburb of St Andrews, following a tip off about suspicious activity.
"A member of the public rang us after seeing five youths walking along a green belt alleyway carrying bags and alcohol. The bags were then seen being loaded into a car," Mr Thornton said.
"A cordon was set up and a track commenced during which the police dog was attacked." Two youths were spoken to by police but ownership of the pitbull could not be established.
A short time later a burglary was reported at a nearby home leading to the arrest of three youths.
He said inquiries established the pitbull that had attacked the police dog was associated with this group.
"Animal control officers were contacted and infringement notices issued in relation to the attack," he said.
Mr Thornton said because the victim of the attack a dog the offending animal could not be taken and destroyed.
However, new legislation under the Policing Act 2008 to take effect from October 1 would introduce harsher penalties for such incidents.
Mr Thornton credited the arrests and recovery of property to the quick actions of a neighbour who contacted police and was able to keep the offenders in sight.
"This is the fourth time this week where members of the public have played a direct part in the apprehension of offenders during burglaries."
Earlier in the week a neighbour who knew the occupants of a home were away had noticed movement in the house next door and phoned police.
"As a result the offenders were caught in the act," said Mr Thornton.
"Actions such as that and yesterday's reinforce the importance of neighbourhood support groups and the benefits of residents and police working toward safer communities together."
