Police keen to reunite tradies with their tools

Police in Wellington are working to return thousands of dollars’ worth of power tools to their rightful owners.

Detectives have located a “hardware store’s worth” of what’s believed to be stolen property at a house in Newtown, after arresting and charging a man with drugs offences.

Top-end brands, such as Makita and Milwaukee, have been recovered.

Police have retrieved many items, including hammer drills, drills, routers, circular saws, reciprocating saws, rechargeable batteries, grinders, and two-way radio sets.

“Commercial tools, such as the ones we have recovered, are the lifeblood of any tradie.

We’re determined to get these items back in the hands of builders who have become burglary victims,” says Detective Sergeant Stephen Wescott.

“While we will ensure those believed to be responsible for taking these tools are dealt with appropriately, equally we can turn our attention to the victims of crime and work to reunite them with their equipment.

“The finding of these tools is an ideal time to remind tradies that they can reduce the risk of their valuables being targeted.

“In vehicles, keep tools out of sight.

Another level of theft prevention for vehicles would be to install alarms and immobilisers.

“If you store your gear on site, label your tools and give them a distinctive mark.

That way, if they are taken, we have a better chance of pairing the product with the owner.

Burglars are unlikely to steal items that are permanently marked because they’re hard to sell,” says Mr Wescott.

Police also recovered computer equipment at the same house.

A number of laptops and smartphones were found, which Police wish to return to their owners.

Owners of the property are asked to contact Wellington Central Police Station on 04 381 2000.

ENDS

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