An 18-year-old unemployed man is in police custody for unlawful use of motor vehicle and will appear at the Rakiraki Magistrate Court today.

The accused is alleged to have stolen a government vehicle on Friday afternoon.

The vehicle was left running by the driver when he got out to close a gate when it’s alleged the accused who was under the influence of alcohol jumped in and drove towards Rakiraki town.

Information was received on his whereabouts whereby officers pursued the accused to Wairuku where the vehicle was involved in an accident when it hit an electrical post.

He tried to run from authorities but was quickly apprehended by Agriculture Officers who were at the scene.

A separate incident occurred later at a Rental Company in Rakiraki town after 10 pm when a suspect allegedly approached a staff of the rental car company who was on his way home.

After persuading the staff to give him a car, the employee left the vehicle with its engine running to get a few papers for the suspect to sign.

While inside the office, the suspect allegedly drove away with the victim’s black Prado which was found half an hour later at Navunibitu, Ra.

Divisional Police Commander, West Acting SSP Abdul Khan while applauding the efforts by the agriculture officers in apprehending the 18- year-old suspect, stressed that people continue to be negligent in securing their properties.

He adds that people need to be alert at all times as there are opportunists who are always waiting for the right moment to strike.

Police Investigation continues.