A spree of burglaries left a section of Māngere business store fronts in ruins on Monday morning, following overnight break-ins.
Police told the news portal Stuff that just before 2 am, a vehicle was used in an attempt to break into several stores in the Māngere Town Centre. Dave Fearon, the Māngere centre manager, reported that two cars tried to access the Red Rat store, but barriers prevented their entry.
The burglary resulted in damage to two stores: Red Rat, which was targeted for ramming, and Blessings, which suffered "collateral damage" with broken glass, Fearon stated. While this incident marked the first time cars were used to break into the centre, previous break-ins involved thieves cutting into roofs over the last couple of months.
"It’s been mostly cigarettes they target," Fearon said, highlighting the impact on security costs and insurance rates for retailers. The centre has recently increased security measures, including additional bollards, cameras, and lighting.
Although no entry was successful, extensive damage was inflicted. The alleged offenders fled in a different vehicle, which was later discovered abandoned by police on nearby Forbury Place. Both vehicles have been towed for forensic examination.
Vape Smith, located approximately ten shops away from Red Rat, still bears a boarded-up window from a break-in on January 27. In November, the same store was broken into for the first time, with thieves gaining entry by cutting into the roof, as reported by Vivek Bali, the store manager.
Images from the town centre depict shattered glass, broken doors, and destroyed businesses. The photos also show metal gates, intended to deter intruders, being folded back and destroyed.