A Michael Hill jewellery store in Auckland’s Westfield St Lukes shopping centre was the target of a robbery on 7 January, prompting a swift police response and the activation of fog cannons.
Three individuals have been arrested, while two others remain at large. The incident is part of an ongoing trend of retail crime affecting jewellers in New Zealand.
Sequence of Events
The robbery occurred in the afternoon when two individuals entered the Michael Hill store, smashing display counters with tools. Witnesses reported that the group had stolen clothing from a nearby Stirling Sports store to cover their faces beforehand.
During the robbery, fog cannons were activated in the store, and alarms sounded. Security guards and bystanders pursued the suspects.
Police Investigation and Arrests
The suspects fled the scene in a white Subaru, later abandoned nearby. Jewellery and display trays were found inside the vehicle. A second vehicle, a Mazda, was intercepted by police after being driven recklessly in the surrounding area. Inside, police discovered three individuals aged between 17 and 19, along with stolen clothing and jewellery believed to be linked to the robbery.
Two of the arrested individuals will appear in Youth Court, while a 19-year-old woman is scheduled to appear in Auckland District Court on 28 January on shoplifting charges. Police are continuing their search for two additional suspects who fled the scene on foot.
Industry Impact and Security Challenges
Michael Hill International (MHI) has noted the persistent challenges posed by retail crime, which has affected several of its stores in New Zealand. In 2023, the company closed its Takapuna branch due to security concerns.
Daniel Bracken, CEO of Michael Hill, stated that the company is reviewing its security measures to prioritise staff and customer safety. Deterrents such as fog cannons remain an integral part of these efforts.
Key Takeaways for Jewellers
This incident highlights the challenges posed by organised retail crime for jewellery businesses. Reviewing security measures, such as CCTV and fog cannons, along with coordinating with local authorities, is critical for mitigating future risks.
