Youths Charged Over Winton Vehicle Crimes

Two youths have been arrested and charged following a crime spree in Winton that ended with a stolen car being torched near the Oreti River Bridge.

Police received multiple reports on Friday night of vehicles being broken into around the town. One car was stolen and then set alight.

Western Southland Area Response Manager Senior Sergeant Peter Graham said police used CCTV footage from community members and recently installed crime prevention cameras to track down those responsible.

"Following these incidents Police started to make enquiries to identify and located those allegedly responsible," Graham said.

"This included reviewing CCTV footage provided by members of the community and the recently installed Crime Prevention cameras."

Police executed two search warrants in the Winton area today and found the youths.

Graham said it showed what police and community could achieve together. "This is a great example of Police and the community working together to get this result.

"We would like to thank everyone who assisted us in our enquiries."

Both youths have been bailed and will appear in Invercargill Youth Court at a later date.

The arrests cap off a busy period for Western Southland police, who have been dealing with increased vehicle crime in rural towns.

Police are asking anyone who sees suspicious or unlawful behaviour to call 111 immediately. Non-emergency information can be provided online at 105.police.govt.nz or by calling 105. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.