Dairy owner despairs after criminals strike again

The owner of a Sunnynook dairy feels “hurt” after her store was broken into for the second time in two weeks.

Thieves ram-raided their way into the Tonkin Dr dairy at 10.18pm on 10 May, stealing cigarettes and causing damage to stock and the shop.

This follows a break-in on 23 April and two previous incidents over the last three years.

Maggie Jiang told the Observer she was tired, due to the stress of dealing with the aftermath of the raids, and not sleeping well because of the fear that it will happen again.

“It’s not fair for us,” she said.

Jiang’s insurance excess has increased from $1000 to $10,000. She said other companies won’t insure the business as it is deemed high risk. She has not been paid out for the recent break-ins because her excess is likely to be more than the repair costs.

When Jiang came to New Zealand 20 years ago she had felt safe, she said, but now feels helpless over the recurring raids.

Police located a vehicle in Birkenhead they believe was used in this month’s ram-raid. The alleged offenders were caught in a different car in Ōtāhuhu.

Two 17-year-old males appeared in the Manukau Youth Court on 10 May on charges relating to burglary and the unlawful taking of a motor vehicle.

In an attempt to deter thieves, Jiang has removed all tobacco products and cash from the store. She has tried to have bollards installed previously, but has not been able to get the necessary consent from her overseas landlord.

Devonport-Takapuna Local Board member