Two men, aged 30 and 31, have been charged with stealing solar panels from critical telecommunication sites in New Zealand’s Far North.
Arrests and Seized Equipment
The Kaitaia Criminal Investigation Branch conducted multiple search warrants, resulting in the arrests. Detective Sergeant Dan Brockbank revealed that a significant amount of stolen equipment, including batteries, power inverters, and illicit drugs, was recovered during the operation.
Ongoing Telecommunication Site Thefts
Over the past 16 months, remote cell phone towers and telecommunication exchanges in the Far North region have experienced a series of thefts. These incidents targeted vital equipment essential for providing backup power to the sites.
Legal Proceedings and Court Details
The accused men appeared in the Kaitaia District Court, facing burglary charges. One of the individuals is also charged with a drug-related offense. Both have been remanded in custody until January 8, 2024. According to court documents, Kane Greenall, 30, is charged in connection with burglaries at cell sites in Te Paki and Oruru, along with drug-related charges. Dylan Law, 31, faces charges related to a burglary at a cell site in Oruru. Both individuals are scheduled for a bail application hearing via audio-visual link on January 8 at the Kaitāia District Court.
Source：radionz.co.nz
