Photo:
Police are keeping an "open mind" about the possibility that four recent robberies in Auckland, including at jewellery stores, are linked.
The incidents have led police to increase their presence at shopping malls across the city - with more than 100 visits completed.
The recent robberies include at Partridge Jewellers in Newmarket on Sunday, a ram-raid at the same jewellers on 12 April, an aggravated burglary in St Lukes on 14 April and an aggravated robbery in Onehunga on 18 April.
Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin said police officers had completed foot patrols and reassurance visits to retailers.
"Staff working at these stores are just doing their jobs, and they should not have to experience the blatantly violent behaviour on display during this offending.
"Our officers will continue to prioritise these prevention patrols over the coming weeks alongside other demand."
Baldwin said investigation teams were following lines of inquiry into the incidents.
"While no arrests have been made at this stage, the investigation team are working through a substantial amount of information and evidence.
"As part of this, we are keeping an open mind as to whether these incidents may be connected and analysis regarding 'series linking' forms part of our process.
"Our priority continues to be to locate those responsible and hold them to account."
Baldwin said police shared the community's "bleak view of the violence being exhibited in some of these incidents".
But he was confident there were people with information about those involved - or who had witnessed them
"We encourage those people to come forward.
"We ask they contact 105 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, no piece of information is too small."
The file number to reference is 240412/0735 or Operation Dusk.