"Scrap metal yard searched after stolen vehicles found"

Christchurch Police are searching a Rolleston scrap metal yard today after finding three stolen vehicles on the premises.

Police visited Independent Metal Traders in Jones Road, Rolleston, this morning to carry out a routine audit under the Second Hand Dealers Act.

Detective Senior Sergeant Corrie Parnell of the Volume Crime unit, says during the course of the inspection an officer located what appeared to be a stolen Nissan Terrano.

"The officer was able to use his mobility device to carry out a vehicle check on the spot, and confirmed it was a vehicle that had been stolen from Dress Smart in Hornby in early July," he says.

"As a result of that, a search was instigated under the Search and Surveillance Act and Police have effectively seized the premises this afternoon while a detailed search is carried out.

"To date we have located two further stolen vehicles, a Nissan Patrol and a Mazda Familia, both of which were confirmed as having been stolen from Christchurch in June."

The Police search of the premises will continue tomorrow.

Investigators will also be speaking to the operators of the business. At this stage no charges have been laid.

"It is extremely disappointing to find stolen vehicles turning up in dealers' yards," says Detective Senior Sergeant Parnell.

"The unlawful taking of motor vehicles can only thrive when there are markets and outlets for these cars and parts.

"While the majority of second-hand dealers are reputable and cooperate well with us, Police will continue to put pressure on these businesses to be vigilant about their customers and the goods that come through their yards.

"Today's operation is an example of the firm line we will be taking in monitoring these operations and cracking down on car thieves."

ENDS

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