Two-for-one burglary arrest as Onehunga, Auckland vape shop break-in leads to discovery in nearby car 

  • 16/01/2024
Auckland City East’s Relieving Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector David Mayes, said "initially it was reported that a vehicle had been used to gain entry to the store".
Auckland City East’s Relieving Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector David Mayes, said "initially it was reported that a vehicle had been used to gain entry to the store". Photo credit: Getty Images

An early morning burglary of a vape shop in Onehunga, Auckland has led to an additional arrest of the owner of a nearby car.    

Police received reports of a burglary at a vape store on Mt Smart Road before 2am on Tuesday morning and quickly responded.    

The two offenders were still inside the store and were apprehended, but that wouldn't be the only bust made at the scene.    

Auckland City East’s Relieving Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector David Mayes, said "initially it was reported that a vehicle had been used to gain entry to the store".   

However, upon closer inspection, staff at the scene confirmed the nearby vehicle had not been used to enter the store, but there was something else in the car.    

"We have recovered a quantity of methamphetamine from inside the vehicle, as well as cash," Acting Inspector Mayes said.   

A 44-year-old man is now facing a charge of possession of methamphetamine with intent to supply because of the chance search.    

Acting Inspector Mayes said enquiries into the burglary are ongoing.   

"I would like to acknowledge the member of the public who reported seeing a disturbance inside the store, allowing us to quickly get on scene," Acting Inspector Mayes said.   

"It takes everyone working together to keep our communities safe, so I encourage everyone who sees something suspicious taking place to report it to us as soon as possible."