A couple who allegedly tried to haul a trolley full of stolen groceries onto a train in Auckland have been stopped in their tracks.
Around 10.15am on Monday, police were called to the Pukekohe Train Station after security prevented a man and a woman attempting to get on a train with a trolley full of allegedly stolen groceries.
Inspector Matt Hoyes said the man allegedly tried to hide the trolley in a toilet cubicle when officers arrived.
“We have observed this male’s actions on CCTV taking the trolley into the toilet block,” Hoyes said. “Staff have recovered the trolley of groceries from inside the toilets and placed both suspects under arrest.”
The groceries were allegedly wheeled away from a nearby supermarket only minutes earlier, he said.
“Further enquires revealed the male was also sought in connection with another serious incident at a superette in Papakura last week.”
At the police station, the woman was interviewed and given a summons. However on her way out, the woman stated she had no money and would steal again.
“Police staff at Pukekohe Police Station gave her a food parcel to help, given the circumstances,” he said.
While waiting for the man, the woman left the station before returning an hour later.
“At this time, she was allegedly observing carrying yet more stolen food,” Hoyes said.
The woman was arrested again and, this time, had her bail opposed.
“It’s disappointing that, despite the support being provided, the woman has continued to offend in such a brazen manner.”
A 33-year-old man would appear in the Papakura District Court charged with receiving property, behaving threateningly, presenting an object like firearms, and assault with intent to rob.
A 28-year-old woman would appear in the Pukekohe District Court charged with shoplifting.
