Arrest made over jewellery store theft, firearm located

Auckland City West Police have arrested a man as part of an investigation
into thefts from businesses in recent weeks.

Inspector Wayne Kitcher, Area Prevention Manager, says Police executed a
a search warrant at a Massey address on Monday evening.

A 30-year-old man was located at the property and has been charged with theft
about an incident at Michael Hill Jewellers at St Lukes Shopping
Center on 4 December.

He is also facing theft charges about incidents at a nearby
electronics store and a petrol station.

“Police have not yet located the jewelry allegedly stolen on Saturday,
however our investigation is continuing into the matter,” Inspector Kitcher
says.

“During the search warrant, Police have also located a firearm, ammunition
and several drugs.

“The discovery of these items will now form part of these ongoing inquiries
and as such we cannot rule out further charges being laid.”

The 30-year-old man charged is due to appear today in the Auckland District
Court.

Police are limited in a further comment at this stage as the matter is before
the Court.