Media Release - Operation Lantern
Monday 26th November 2007
WHANGAREI Police have continued their inquiries into two separate arsons over-night on 13 November 2007 occurring in the
western suburb of Maunu in WHANGAREI at about 11.30 p.m.
The first fire was set in a Portable toilet unit on Pompallier Estate Drive completely destroying the unit and damaging
a neighbouring fence, causing damage in excess of $3,600.
A short time later, the second fire was lit in the female block of the public toilet at the Barge Park show grounds in
Maunu, causing damage in excess of $70,000.
At 4:40 p.m. on Monday 26th November 2007, a 19 year old electricity linesman was arrested in connection with both
incidents and will appear in the WHANGAREI District Court on Tuesday the 27th November 2007 facing two counts of Arson.
On Sunday 18th November 2007, a 16 year old female was also spoken to in relation to both incidents and has been
referred to the WHANGAREI Police Youth Aid Section.
K W PENNEY
Detective
O/C Case
Criminal Investigation Branch