Three Cromwell vineyard workers have been arrested in connection with a spate of diesel thefts from vineyards, involving hundreds of litres of fuel.
Sergeant Mike Williams said a 21-year-old man would face six counts of burglary, and a 19-year-old woman and 21-year-old man would each face five counts of burglary. All will appear in the Alexandra District Court on Wednesday.
Sgt Williams said some of the charges were representative, as the alleged offenders had gone back to some of the vineyards multiple times.
The thefts took place throughout this year, mostly from vineyards around Cromwell and also from one in the Gibbston Valley. The alleged thefts could amount to "hundreds of litres".
The investigation was continuing and anyone with information is asked to contact Cromwell police or the Crimestoppers line on 0800-555111.
The Otago Daily Times reported last month some Central Otago vineyard owners were installing infrared cameras to monitor their tanks, but Sgt Williams said footage from those cameras had not been used in the investigation so far.
