Waikato police have arrested nine people, including six youths, following a number of search warrants after two aggravated robberies.
Waikato District Commander Superintendent Bruce Bird said on Wednesday police arrested three youths following an aggravated robbery at a petrol station on Avalon Dr earlier in the day.
"All three offenders have been charged with aggravated robbery and were scheduled to appear in the Hamilton Youth Court."
Supt Bird said one of the youths was also charged with burglary in relation to a ramraid of a liquor store on Sandwich Rd on Monday.
A 30-year-old man was also arrested and charged with aggravated robbery following an incident at a bar in Hamilton East last week. He will appear in the Hamilton District Court on Thursday.
"Enquiries into this incident are ongoing and further arrests may be made," police said in a statement.
During search warrants, a 42-year-old woman was arrested for obstruction.
A 39-year-old man was arrested too on previous warrants and unlawful-taking charges. He will appear in the Hamilton District Court on Thursday.
Police said three youth offenders wanted for breaching their bail conditions were located too and appeared in the Hamilton Youth Court on Wednesday.
Police recovered two stolen vehicles that were recently used in criminal offending.
Supt Bird said he committed to "throwing the kitchen sink" at efforts to hold offenders to account, and added the news "of these arrests today is proof of that".
"We will not stop working to identify, locate, and deal with offenders in our community that cause an incredible amount of distress and harm."
Supt Bird acknowledged the recent crime in the Waikato region is unsettling for the community, but assured residents he and his team are working "hard to hold offenders to account".
"We will continue to maintain a visible presence in retail areas and will task additional staff to our investigation efforts."
Police urged the public to call 111 immediately if they see any suspicious behaviour.
