A 35-year-old man has been arrested and charged after allegedly stealing thousands of dollars worth of chocolate and other goods from supermarkets across Auckland.
Police allege the man was responsible for more than $9000 worth of stolen goods in one area of Auckland alone and has now been charged with 21 offences, including 19 shoplifting charges.
Auckland City West Area Prevention Manager Inspector Wayne Kitcher said the man appeared to have specifically targeted chocolate products from supermarkets across the city.
“It appears this person has allegedly targeted chocolate from various supermarkets across the city,” Kitcher said.
In one incident, the man is accused of stealing more than $3000 worth of chocolate from a supermarket in Te Atatū.
Kitcher praised the work of police staff involved in the investigation.
“This is an example of some exceptional police work, particularly by one of our intelligence officers, which led to this arrest,” he said.
Police said they remain focused on tackling prolific retail crime and offending against businesses in local communities.
The man appeared in the Auckland District Court over the weekend and was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to reappear in court on August 26.
Police are urging anyone who witnesses offending in progress to call 111. Incidents that have already occurred can be reported through 105, online, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
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