Hamilton seek public's help in identifying hi-vis burglar

Hiding in plain sight is how Waikato Police describe the tactics of a day time burglar who made off with a safe containing valuables and important documents from a Hamilton home yesterday.

Sergeant Jono Clark of the Waikato Tactical Crime Unit said Police are investigating the burglary of a Peacockes Rd home around 11am.

“Initially the burglar has driven up the driveway and knocked on the door wearing a long-sleeve orange hi-vis jacket.

“This is quite a cunning move because frequently people can mistake hi-vis clothing for some type of official function, believing someone who is wearing clothing of this type would draw attention to them selves, so therefore they are less likely to be suspicious.”

Mr Clark said images from security cameras then show the beared male offender having removed his orange jacket and approaching the door dressed in a black baseball cap with a grey peak and light coloured circular logo on its front, dark jeans or trousers and a black T-shirt with a red logo on the front.

“The male has entered the victims home and removed a safe which contained a number of passports, important paperwork and a sum of cash.

“He has then driven off in his dark coloured two door car.

Unfortunately we are yet to recover the vehicle’s registration number from the security footage.”

Mr Clark said while most people could be forgiven for believing a person on a property wearing hi-vis safety clothing had honest intent, residents should remember to stick to the basics and not be complacent.

“All reputable contractors, delivery drivers or couriers, meter readers and other workers will have photo identification on them and welcome enquiries from residents seeking to verify persons’ bonafides.

“Usually your gut instinct is correct.

If you see someone on a property who looks out of place regardless of their attire you’re probably right and you should ask them for identification.

If it still doesn’t seem right then don’t hesitate to call Police on 111.”

Anyone recognising the man in the photographs is asked to contact Mr Clark at the Hamilton Central Police Station on 07 858 6200.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously with the independent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

ENDS

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