Winnie in the pooh following Hamilton burglary arrests

A number of key holders of west Hamilton business got an early wake up call this morning after what appears to have been an alcohol fuelled crime spree overnight.

Hamilton City Tactical Coordinator, Senior Sergeant Freda Grace, said Police were alerted by security guards to problems at the Dinsdale shops shortly after 2am.

"Four businesses had been broken into which included a hair salon, costume hire shop and two takeaway stores. In addition to items taken extensive damage was caused to the buildings which it is estimated, will cost several thousand dollars to repair.

"A responding Police dog handler tracked a group back to a nearby address where under the Search and Surveillance Act, the dwelling was searched and a variety of items were recovered by the Hamilton Proactive Policing Team."

Ms Grace said an 18-year-old male and two females aged 18 and 16-years-old were arrested at the property while a 24-year-old man was arrested on outstanding warrants and two other people were arrested for obstruction.

"Alcohol certainly appears to have been a contributing factor in what has occurred and we haven't been able to interview all those concerned because of their intoxication levels.

"Heaven knows what the offenders were planning to do with their loot when you consider the items recovered included a large amount of hair products, a till, soft drinks and a large Winnie-the-pooh costume."

Ms Grace said one thing that was clear from this morning's incident was the value of having a staggered approach to securing commercial premises and the value of the timely relaying of information to the Police from the community which in this case led to the arrests.

"Having good locks is a start, then having monitored security alarms, CCTV and secure cabinets all help to protect your premises making it too difficult or time consuming for offenders to try and target.

"Any business owner seeking advice on how best to protect their business is encouraged to contact Hamilton Police on 07 858 6200 and make an appointment to speak to your local Community Constable."