Counties Manukau Police are investigating an aggravated burglary in Papatoetoe where an elderly woman was tied up in her own home.

At about 1pm on Wednesday 8 January, a man wearing a balaclava and holding a knife entered the house as the woman opened the back door to collect laundry. The woman was home alone at the time. The house was ransacked for jewellery and cash while the woman was tied up with a scarf and bedsheet.

Police are appealing for information from the public which can help towards apprehending the offender in this violent crime.

"We are appalled at the violent nature of this crime during broad daylight," says Detective Sergeant Simon Beal of Counties Manukau CIB. "Any information from members of the public regarding this incident will be vital to the investigation."

The area of interest is Papatoetoe, particularly the streets of Huia Rd, Stonex Rd, Bernard St and Kimpton Rd. Anyone who has seen any suspicious behaviour in these streets between midday and 4pm yesterday should call Police immediately. At this stage the only description on the offender is a man wearing a balaclava but residents or motorists who were in the area at the time and saw anything out of the ordinary should contact Police.

Anyone with information can call Detective Sergeant Simon Beal of the Counties Manukau CIB on 09 261 1321. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

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