By Kajal Nair, RNZ
Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
A man allegedly tried to steal copper piping from the Old Horowhenua Hospital has been caught, thanks to a caretaker.
The caretaker spotted the man at the hospital complex on Saturday morning and called the police.
The police said the man fled the scene, leaving behind bags of copper.
Police were making enquiries in the area which encouraged the suspect to hand himself in later.
The offender is now facing five charges of burglary and is due to appear in the Levin District court on Monday.
The old hospital buildings, now used by community groups, have been targeted several times in the recent months, police said.
On Thursday, the main water supply to the site was cut off during another burglary attempt and the damage repairs were estimated to be around $20,000.
The burglaries have caused thousands of dollars of damage so far and undermines the infrastructure of the building.
Acting Senior Sergeant Bernie O'Brien said the police were grateful for the public help in locating the offender.
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