A five-day operation targeting commercial burglaries, youth and gang crime in Rotorua has resulted in several arrests.

The operation follows an increase in commercial burglaries at night, and vehicle crime that is often associated with these burglaries.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Van Kempen says as well as arresting two people responsible for multiple burglaries, seven stolen vehicles were recovered, and 12 youth were either charged or referred to youth aid for a range of related offences.

“It was a huge success for Rotorua, and I have no doubt that a lot of crime was prevented as a result," says Detective Van Kempen.

"We’ll be looking at continuing similar operations going forward.

“This gave us a real opportunity to disrupt and apprehend some of those involved in these crimes, and the efforts, while largely at night, were noticed by the community.”

The Tactical Crime Unit were assisted by youth aid, the dog section and community staff. 

Rotorua Lakes Council provided assistance by use of CCTV cameras to assist Police enquiries.

Van Kempen says bringing the different workgroups together gave an opportunity for everyone to learn from one another, especially around areas such as decision making when it comes to youth.

“Community safety is a priority for Rotorua Police, and our teams are working tirelessly to ensure this happens. 

"This is just one example of working together to hold offenders to account and prevent further harm.”

District Commander Tim Anderson spent Saturday night with the operation team and was extremely impressed with what he saw.

“They’re a formidable team, and I have no doubt their hard work paid dividends in stopping criminals in their tracks," says Commander Anderson.

"It’s great to see our people out there doing such an incredible job for their community. 

?If the public got to see what I did, they’d be just as blown away by our people’s professionalism and dedication.”