Burglars raid Chch ‘stockbroker belt’

Press, 10 January 1987, Page 1

Burglars raid Chch ‘stockbroker belt’

By

JEFF HAMPTON

A group- of well organised burglars are raiding Christchurch’s “stockbroker belt” — Fendalton, Strowan, and Merivale — in search of antiques, silverware, and jewellery. A number of houses had been hit over the Christmas and New Year holiday period, said Detective Sergeant John Lyall, of the Papanui C. 1.8. “They seem to be selective — they aren’t taking anything that isn't silver. They know what they are looking for,” he said. Property valued at more than $30,000 was taken after a raid on a house in Fendalton re-

cently. Detective Sergeant Lyall said that the haul included antiques and a valuable collection of stamps, including rare New Zealand stamps. Cutlery, chinaware, and candelabra were also taken. The stolen goods might be offered to second-hand dealers or sold through newspaper’ advertisements, warned Detective Sergeant Lyall. The police also believed the group was sending stolen goods from Christchurch to other parts of New Zealand. "I would expect that it’s a well-organised group which has got a market

for the goods,” said Detective Sergeant Lyall. Many of the items stolen, such as antiques and silverware, would not sell on the “black market” in hotels. The goods were often family heirlooms and had sentimental value, said Detective Sergeant Lyall. The burglars seemed to be hitting an area between Memorial Avenue, Fendalton Road, and Papanui Road. They broke into the houses, often through an unsecured window. Detective Sergeant Lyall urged Fendalton householders to ensure that their homes were secure.

“Some people have valuable paintings, china, and ornaments with virtually no security,” he said. “They need a real shake-up.” The burglars would strike any time. Late shopping nights were “notorious,” said Detective Sergeant Lyall. The police were happy to advise householders about security. Master locksmiths and security firms would also give advice. A safe and an alarm system were good deterrents, said Detective Sergeant Lyall. He urged residents to report to the police any suspicious activity.