A team of Police Officers had been deployed to conduct night patrols at a ‘grab and run’ theft hotspot in Raiwai.

Police Spokesperson, Ana Naisoro said in the process, a person was arrested and was in custody for alleged theft.

A resident who wished to remain anonymous for security purposes said there was fear in reporting theft cases because they felt they would be targeted next if it become known.

“We live in a small community, all we ask is for more Police patrols done on a daily basis,” the resident said.

“There are many shortcut routes which people take to get to their homes and thieves take advantage of these spots.

“I felt at ease when I see Police officers walking around the neighbourhood, it shows they are taking steps to combat the complains in our area,” she said.

Another resident, Seta Nathan said there was a need for a neighbourhood watch zone to encourage people to count on others and work together to curb such acts.

“We appreciate the efforts by Police, but the ownership is also on us who live here,” he said.

“We cannot keep entertaining people who rob others and get away with it by coming through our neighbourhood, we have to start speaking out and stand up against these criminals.