Overnight on Friday night-Saturday morning, the Te Whariki subdivision, just south of Lincoln township, was targeted by offenders who damaged properties and machinery at the site.
Constable Mike Harker of Lincoln Police says vandals targeted several earthworks vehicles, smashing numerous windows on excavators, dump trucks, water tankers, bulldozers, a bobcat and a tractor.
Rags and dry plant material were stuffed into some of the vehicles’ fuel tanks and attempts were made to set them alight. A plate compactor was set alight and burnt.
Three houses under construction on the subdivision were also targeted, with eight double-glazed windows smashed.
Constable Harker says police are extremely disappointed with the deliberate vandalism.
“This is a senseless act – and is hugely distressing for the property owners,” he says. “The cost of the damage is likely to run into tens of thousands of dollars.”
A scene examination has been carried out and a number of items of interest have been recovered, including forensic evidence.
“Our initial enquiries indicate there are likely to be multiple offenders, probably young people.
“We particularly want to hear from any parents that may have noticed unexplained cuts on their children’s hands, or clothing smelling of petrol and diesel, on Saturday morning.”
