More police in Gisborne region following spate of crime since power cut

Extra police staff have been rostered on after a district-wide power cut caused by a fatal plane crash yesterday. Photo / Gisborne Herald

Police will continue to have extra patrols on the beat in Tairawhiti tonight following three burglaries in 24 hours.

The crimes, one of which targeted cigarettes, were committed during a district-wide power cut caused by a fatal plane crash yesterday.

Power is set to return to the region tonight, however a heavy police presence will continue regardless.

Police said it was unfortunate that people had exploited the situation for their own gain.

Police had visited local business owners to provide advice on how to protect their stock and premises during this time in an effort to prevent further burglaries.

The charred wreck of the plane that crashed into power line near Gisborne viewed form a helicopter in dense forest. Photo / Supplied

Extra police staff had been rostered on and additional community patrols had been deployed to provide reassurance to the community, police said.

The Gisborne Police Station will remain open 24/7 to the public until further notice.

Police will also be visiting the homes of people who are currently on bail to ensure they are complying with their conditions until power is restored.

If evidence is found that people are attempting to use the disruption to breach their conditions they could expect to be held to account, police said.

Police are asking anyone with information about the burglaries or concerns about the welfare of residents to contact them.