Police in Counties Manukau East are reminding residents to check the identification of official workers following reports of people impersonating officials.

Counties Manukau East Area Community Service Manager, Senior Sergeant Anson Lin, says Police have recently dealt with a number of burglaries in the Howick area, where a suspect has impersonated an official worker.

“Police are aware that there have been persons identifying themselves as official workers and visiting houses, advising residents they are there to check the water or power metres.

"A high-vis jacket is no guarantee of authority - and sadly there are offenders out there who are trying to take advantage of people,” Senior Sergeant Lin says.

Police are reminding residents that all official workers, regardless of which organisation they work for, will be clearly identifiable with photo ID, uniforms and fluro gear.

“We encourage anyone who sees something that doesn’t appear right to contact Police.

“Don’t be afraid to challenge something or someone to ask for identification - official workers will be clearly identifiable.”

Senior Sergeant Lin says residents who notice any suspicious behaviour in their neighbourhood should contact Police.

“If you see something, say something. We need the public to report any suspicious activity so we can conduct enquiries and hold offenders to account.

“If you see suspicious behaviour and it is happening now please contact Police on 111 or if it is after the fact, contact Police on 105 or online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105.”
 

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