At least six stores were hit by thieves in smash-and-grab robberies in Auckland on Wednesday night.
Video / Supplied
Thieves have struck again, with several stores and shops around Auckland hit overnight.
At least six establishments were targeted by thieves - a fruit and vegetable shop in Papatoetoe, the Ormiston shopping centre in South Auckland, a Liquorland and SuperValue shop in Titirangi, West Auckland and a furniture store in Parnell.
It is understood Police were called to the NZ Fruit and Spices fruit and vegetable store on George St, Papatoetoe, just before 1.30am after reports of a burglary.
A witness said it looked as if a vehicle had been used to ram the roller door. However, it was unclear whether anything was taken.
Shortly before 2am, officers received reports of another incident at the Ormiston Town Centre in Manukau.
There they found that thieves had smashed their way through a rear entrance of the mall.
The Glass Road Superette in Mt Roskill was one of several shops targeted by thieves around Auckland overnight. Photo / Hayden Woodward
Titirangi stores hit again
CCTV footage shown to the Herald showed two people kicking the door-in and then targeting a 2degrees shop inside. The video showed the pair breaking in shortly after the security guard had carried out a check.
An Ormiston Town Centre spokesperson said at approximately 2am there was a break-in at the centre, affecting the 2degrees store.
"We continue to provide support and assistance to Ormiston Town Centre retailers as part of a multi-agency approach to deal with the ongoing challenges faced by the retail community.
"Further security measures are being reviewed for the site and the wider shopping centre precinct will have an increased security presence."
The spokesperson said the town centre remained committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for its retailers, staff, and customers.
"We are assisting the police with their inquiries regarding this matter and encourage anyone with information about this incident to please contact the police."
The thieves made off with a bag full of items and were in and out of the complex in less than 30 seconds.
The Ormiston Town Centre was struck by thieves overnight - again. Photo / Hayden Woodward
Police were then called to a third incident on the other side of the city in Titirangi, West Auckland, where thieves had targeted Liquorland Titirangi and SuperValue Titirangi.
Both stores have been hit by thieves in recent months before. This time, they were hit in what appeared to be smash-and-grab style thefts.
The owner of the SuperValue store arrived at the store as police officers carried out their routine checks and examinations of the scene.
"I'm tired - I'm over it," he said.
"When are you going to start locking them up? Everyone I know is going through this. What's the point anymore?
"I'm trying to run a store...I've just had enough."
Just before 5am, officers were called to Glass Rd, in Mt Roskill, after reports of a burglary.
A witness said those responsible had forced their way through the roller door, smashing the window and taking off with several items.
It was unclear if anyone had been caught. However, multiple police vehicles were seen outside the store and the police helicopter was spotted overhead.
The last incident was reported at the King Living furniture store in Parnell, central Auckland.
The incident happened shortly before 6am. Several windows were smashed.
