Swift arrest after incident involving fleeing driver in Botany

As part of an ongoing shoplifting investigation, police made a valuable discovery in Botany on Sunday evening.

Inspector Rakana Cook, Manukau East District Prevention Manager, said police were alerted to a suspicious vehicle travelling on Te Irirangi Drive at around 4.25pm.

“It is alleged that the vehicle in question is linked to thefts valued at least $20,000 in recent weeks.

“The vehicle did not stop when signalled by police and our officers observed the vehicle continuing to drive in a worrying manner and endangering people on several occasions at high speed.”

Police did not pursue the vehicle, but it was spotted again a short time later turning onto Thomas Road.

“At this point, the vehicle was already in a dead end street, where the police soon arrived,” says Inspector Cook.

“The driver was taken into custody a short time later without further incident.”

A man has now been charged in this connection.

The 32-year-old is due to appear in the Manukau District Court on Wednesday, June 12. He is accused of failing to stop, dangerous driving and withholding personal information.

While our investigation continues, police do not rule out further arrests or charges in this case.

The police are once again appalled by this incredibly dangerous behavior.

“We cannot stress enough how concerned we are about those who put themselves and other road users in our community at risk,” says Inspector Cook.

“It is incredibly fortunate that no one, including those involved, was injured in this incident.”