Whakatāne RSA is pleased police have recovered its twice-stolen plaques.

A 52-year-old man has been charged with theft and receiving in relation to three World War I and II memorial plaques, which were stolen then recovered and reinstated on stones in Mitchell Park, before being stolen again.

The man is scheduled to appear in Whakatāne District Court next month.

Senior Sergeant Anthony Hay said the plaques were first stolen in March. They were recovered and returned to their rightful place but were stolen again between April and May.

With the assistance of the community, police recovered the plaques for a second time, but they are significantly damaged.

“These plaques have significant historical and community value, and it is sad to see them treated in such a disrespectful way given the profound meaning they hold for so many of us in our community,” said Hay.

“Metal theft continues to be a recurring issue across the Eastern Bay of Plenty. We work closely with second-hand metal dealers to identify stolen items and monitor suspicious activity, but we also rely on information from the public.”

RSA president Victor Hape said the RSA was grateful to see the plaques recovered.

“As an RSA, we’re happy the plaques have been recovered and that the person responsible has been caught and will be in front of a court soon.”

“We believe justice is on its way.”

Police are continuing to make enquiries into metal theft offending and encourage anyone with information to come forward.

Anyone with information can contact police online at 105.police.govt.nz or call 105. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.