Police and Army Continue Patrols Along With Business As Usual

Police with Army support are continuing to patrol Christchurch suburbs worst hit by the Canterbury Earthquake with a mix of foot patrols and static checkpoints.

However, alongside this it's business as usual for Police.

"Calls for service are now starting to fall back to normal levels," said Inspector John Price.

"Our intelligence-led deployment of staff requires timely information and we ask the public to report anything they see or seek assistance if they need help from Police," Inspector Price said.

Inspector Price said Police were actively targeting and responding to all criminal activity and, along with the courts, will take a zero tolerance approach to any offending relating to the Canterbury earthquake.

"It is intolerable that people would seek to profit from other's misfortunes," Inspector Price said.

Police in conjunction with Neighbourhood Support strongly suggest that in times like these, Neighbourhood Support is an excellent mechanism for strengthening communities and neighbourhoods, Inspector Price said.

"Watching out for your neighbours is always critical to safety," Inspector Price said.

Neighbours interested in forming such a group can contact Dave Wilkinson on 378 0437 or email him at canterburyns@paradise.net.nz.

Early figures show a slight reported increase in the number of burglaries in suburbs affected by the earthquake, however the number of burglaries in the central city is not uncharacteristic.

"There is a general scattering of burglary incidents around the city with no real defined trend specific to the areas affected by the Canterbury Earthquake," Inspector Price said.

Police are continuing to encourage people to keep themselves and their homes safe.

Yesterday police sent out the message that if people had to leave their homes then they should take the same precautions that they would to secure their property if they were going away for an extended break.

Today they reiterated the messages that people should make their homes a hard target for burglars. Police suggest the following steps:

• Remove valuables

• Talk to your neighbours about your plans

• Securely lock your doors and windows and secure property such as garages, garden sheds

• Have someone clear your mail and newspapers

• If you see something suspicious dial 111

ENDS

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