Items sought after school burglary

Over the weekend beginning 30 November 2012 to 03 December 2012 a burglary occurred at the South Makirikiri School near Marton.

The small rural school is currently undergoing an extension building project.

A storage unit containing construction tools was broken into over this time period and approximately $20,000 worth of electrical tools and building items were taken. Other items were found on the site in preparation for removal.

The school buildings were also broken into and four Apple laptop computers were taken. These laptops have a total replacement value of $6,000.

The 158 pupils that attend the school use these computers to complete their work. The four laptops taken were removed from the one classroom. They contained saved student work.

Officer in charge of Marton Police Station, Sergeant Peter Wood said: "While no personal information is held on these machines and they are replaceable, the children's work files held on them cannot be replaced."

The building project has been slowed until replacement work equipment is obtained.

"Some of the stolen property has been recovered at a Marton address and a 40 year-old male and a 36 year-old female have been charged with burglary," said Sergeant Wood.

Police have received information that some of the outstanding stolen items have been sold as far away as Wellington.

Items still sought are all good quality items such as Makita, Ramset, and Hitachi and include battery drills, skill saws, Ramset guns, grinders, and a laser level. These items are mostly engraved with either a number or with initials of the individual builder.

An air conditioning unit from a heat pump was taken along with a large roll of electrical wiring. Two Apple laptops are also still outstanding.

"Police are interested in any suspicious activity in the area so if you have any information that will assist in the investigation please contact us," said Sergeant Wood.

Anyone including second hand dealers who may have purchased tools or laptops, matching the description given, or who have information relating to this incident, are asked to call their local Police Station or make contact directly with the Marton Police on (06) 327 6555.

Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.