CCTV footage captured two alleged burglars in the act during early morning offending in Ōtāhuhu.
Around 7.25am yesterday, a pair of perpetrators were observed jumping the fence of a residential address on Hall Avenue.
Counties Manukau West Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Mohammed Atiq, says the homeowners watched on CCTV as the male and female allegedly searched their backyard.
"The suspects were seen gathering up property belonging to the occupants, including bags, curtains, laptops and a jerry can.
"Undoubtedly concerned by what they were witnessing, the homeowners contacted Police."
Units rapidly responded and both suspects were arrested.
Officers located a trail of stolen property around the property and over the fenceline. The items were returned to the homeowners.
"While most people were just beginning their day, these two were actively offending in our community.
"This is a timely reminder that if you see suspicious behaviour in your neighbourhood, report it to Police," Inspector Atiq says.
A 47-year-old male and a 41-year-old female have been charged with burglary and will appear in Manukau District Court on 17 November.
