A repeat shoplifter with a warrant for his arrest will face court after being caught red-handed in Howick yesterday.

Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager Inspector Rakana Cook says the Area Prevention Unit had been seeking the 45-year-old man, as he was wanted in connection with $2,500 of shoplifting from a Howick supermarket in recent days.

Police had information this man was still active in the east Auckland area.

“Around 7.45pm yesterday we received a call from a supermarket in Howick, who were watching the wanted man fill a trolley with groceries inside their store.”

Units attended the scene and apprehended the male as he was filling the trolley with almost $200 worth of produce.

“While speaking with him a meth pipe was found in his possession,” Inspector Cook says.

All the items were returned to the supermarket and the alleged offender faces five new shoplifting charges on top of his outstanding matters.

The 45-year-old man will appear in the Manukau District Court.

“We are pleased to have been able to apprehend this individual and hold him to account for his actions,” Inspector Cook says.

“Police are opposing this man’s bail at his court appearance.”

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