Children caught selling stolen items on Facebook

Two children had admitted their role in the theft and attempt to sell stolen property and were being dealt with by Youth Aid. Photo / Andrew Bonallack

Police are warning parents to be vigilant after a group of intermediate-age children were caught selling stolen goods on social media.

Children just 12 years old had listed on Facebook electronic equipment they had stolen in a house burglary.

Hamilton City area commander Inspector Hywel Jones said the listing was found during an investigation of a Patterson St house burglary.

"Our staff discovered that a group of 12-year-olds had carried out the burglary and, thanks to a member of the public drawing it to our attention, electronics stolen from the home were being sold on a Facebook page."

Mr Jones said the parents of one child had taken some property back to the victims.

Two children had admitted their role in the theft and attempt to sell stolen property and were being dealt with by Youth Aid.

Mr Jones said parents needed to know who their children were with and what they were up to.

"Particularly over the holiday period young people find themselves with too much time on their hands We're asking parents to be vigilant in terms of any electronics or other property their child may turn up with, ask where they got it from and make the effort to be aware of their internet activity."

Mr Jones praised the parents involved.

"Early interventions will see the property returned to the victims and the young people and their families afforded the support and supervision they need to prevent further offending."