Vandalism distresses

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 11, Issue 533, 17 May 1994, Page 1

Vandalism distresses

The proprietor of the Raetihi Trading Company is sickened by the senseless vandalism of his business on the weekend. Barney Haddon arrived back on Sunday from a business trip to Auckland to find that the shop, situated in Seddon Street, Raetihi, had been broken into, burgled and extenTurn to Page 2

Vandalism

FROM PAGE 1 sively vandalised. Mr Haddon said the offenders discovered a large quantity of commercial printers' ink on the premises and proceeded to spray it over walls, windows, carpets and sale items, including numerous antique pieces. While cleaners were able to remove the bulk of the ink from the shop's interior on Sunday, a considerable amount of stock was damaged beyond repair and had to be dumped. Mr Haddon estimates the damage at over $2000. Numerous other items were stolen from the premises, including a ghetto blaster, heater, kitchen utensils, speakers , clock, pots, and two dozen cups and saueers. Also among the stolen items was a distinctive red glass lampshade that was made by a local artisan. An Ohakune Police spokesman said it appeared the offenders had "partied" in the shop before destroying it. A large quantity of bread was stolen from Raetihi Price Cutter on the same night, presumably by the same offenders (see Police File). Mr Haddon is particularly annoyed about the destruction of his wife' s reading glasses, valued at $350, that were in the rear of the shop. "It was a totally senseless act of vandalism", said Mr Haddon. "I only hope the Police get hold of those responsible before my boys do." In the meantime it is business as usual for Raetihi' Trading Co, with the latest stock newly arrived from Auckland, although the shop now sports new security locks and other precautions.