Waimarino crime wave subsides

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 9, Issue 421, 28 January 1992, Page 1

Waimarino crime wave subsides

The scheme whcrcby police were aided on patrol by members of the public had worked well, said Mr Phillips, and he said police would continue to use this systcm where necessary. He said they are still keen to gct names of people who could be available for patrols. "An extra pair of eyes and ears on patrol can make all the difference." With most of the ringleaders of the Waimarino's burglary group behind bars, the recent rising crime rate

has abated, but Police still urge people to be vigilant. Burglaries have dropped from up to five a night to 2-3 a week now, said constable Greg Phillips last Friday. But thieves are still operating regularly in Raetihi. He said continued help from the public is necessary to keep the prcssure on the crime rate. Waimarino Police officers will be looking at further efforts to revive the neighbourhood support system, which was suggested at a public

meeting late past year. Mr Phillips said while recent public response to the neighbourhood support scheme has bcen disappointing, the Police were not giving up on the idea. "We still have some things to do to gauge public support for the scheme," hc said. "Crime prevention is a joint responsibility of the police and the public. If you see something suspicious don't hesitate to call us - we can only act on the information we receive."