Fuel for Raetihi night patrol

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 13, Issue 636, 14 May 1996, Page 5

Fuel for Raetihi night patrol

Ra e t i h i ' s volunteer night patrol group got a much needed boost last week with the presentation of $200 in petrol vouchers. Senior sergeant, Ross Bielby made the presentation to June Mosen of the Raetihi Information Centre. The Information Centre is responsible for coordinating the night patrol roster system. Retailers and others from within the community volunteer their time to carry out what Mr Beilby said has become an invaluable yet very timeconsuming duty. The night patrol organisation was set up about four years ago, out of a need to curb the increasing burglaries and wilful damage being done to the retail and industrial areas. The patrollers did have an effect, with a decline of offences in those areas. According to police in recent years they have been able to make several arrests as a result of the patrols. Sgt Beilby said the police are fully supporti ve of the night patrol as good example of the police and community working together. "Although we are still getting a number of burglaries and wilful damage offences, numbers are far fewer, than before

the patrol was put into place," he said. June Mosen, one of the staff members at the Information Centre said the job of the night patroller is not to apprehend the offender but to be the eyes and ears for the police and to notify them of any suspicious activity. Volunteers patrol usually in cars, though some may work a shift on foot. Mrs Mosen said the group welcomes volunteers and anyone interested in helping should contact the centre. N ames put forward are kept confidential. Sergeant Bielby said he would love to see more members of the community take an active part in the patrol as the closure of retail business due to crime affects all of the community.