Katikati Police is warning the local community to be aware of Facebook scams, with many false profiles circulating on the online platform.

Please ensure care is taken with Marketplace purchases. We recommend that buyers pay for their purchases at the time of pick-up. Unless you have the property or have dealt with the seller face-to-face, don’t give up any money. Facebook is full of scammers waiting to take your hard-earned money.

There are many false profiles circulating where payment is being made early, and the pages are closed. Due to the volume and difficult nature of false pages, not all complaints made to police are able to be resolved.

Burglaries

Sept 16: A dark-coloured ute was captured going onto private property at Hakao Rd and Florence Lane in Te Puna. Bolt cutters were used to gain access through a gate.

Sept 17: A califont and gas bottle were stolen from a Tetley Rd property in Katikati.

Sept 19: A residential garage on Parl Rd in Katikati was broken into while the owner was away. Electric tools and dive gear were stolen.

Sept 23: A 2018 Ausa CH250 diesel forklift was stolen from an avocado orchard at Athenree.

Sept 26: Two 5 stud/spoke chrome 17-inch mags and two tyres were stolen from a Katikati township business. A caravan was also broken into on the property where multiple electrical items were taken.

Report suspicious activity

An unknown male has been knocking on doors at residential properties in Katikati, asking for work. Be aware of this kind of activity.

Meanwhile, vacant properties are being targeted for copper thefts. If you see something, say something! Please report unexpected movements and torch lights seen at night to the police.

Also, remember to look out for your neighbours – and if you don’t lock it, you could lose it. Call 111 if an incident is happening now, or call 105 after the event.