A burglar got more than a fright after being disturbed allegedly trying to break into a Cockle Bay property.
He will be appearing in court today after quick thinking by a member of the public on Sunday afternoon.
Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rakana Cook, says the initial report was made just before 12.30pm.
¡°The property near Cockle Bay Beach was unoccupied at the time,¡± he says.
¡°A member of the public quickly contacted Police after seeing the offender trying to gain access to the property.¡±
The offender was spooked after being disturbed in the act and fled the area in a vehicle.
¡°While contacting our Emergency Communications Centre, the member of the public provided good information about the vehicle,¡± Inspector Cook says.
Police eventually located the vehicle travelling into Whitford.
Inspector Cook says Police units stopped the vehicle and spoke with the driver.
¡°A search was carried out on the vehicle and the driver was arrested on the roadside.¡±
The 50-year-old man has been charged with burglary and is expected in the Manukau District Court today.
Inspector Cook says: ¡°This highlights the importance of doing something, and contacting Police, if you see something suspicious in your community.
¡°I¡¯d like to acknowledge the member of the public for doing the right thing yesterday afternoon.¡±
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/51½ÖÉä