Two teenage girls who allegedly attempted to steal items of clothing before fleeing a shopping mall have been caught by Police as they were boarding a bus.
At about 1.45pm yesterday, Police were notified of two girls who allegedly attempted to take items of clothing from a store in WestCity Waitakere before assaulting a security guard and member of the public.
°Â²¹¾±³Ù±ð³¾²¹³Ù¨¡ West Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Kelly Farrant, says Police were swiftly on site and managed to apprehend the two youngsters as they were boarding a bus bound for New Lynn.
¡°One alleged offender has run directly into a member of the public while trying to get away, while the other has allegedly assaulted a security guard in an attempt to flee.
¡°Thankfully no one was seriously injured, however they were understandably shaken up.
¡°This type of brazen crime is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.¡±
Inspector Farrant says both teenagers were quickly apprehended without further incident.
¡°We want to reassure the public that Police are increasing our visibility around malls and transport hubs in the lead up to Christmas.?
¡°Those who choose to cause harm to others can expect to be caught and held to account for their actions.¡±
A 14-year-old charged with aggravated assault and shoplifting will appear in Wait¨¡kere Youth Court on 29 October.
A 13-year-old has been referred to Youth Aid Services.
ENDS.
Holly McKay/51½ÖÉä