A female motorist has had her blood specimen taken by police after crashing into the TEM Store last week.

Police media officer Trevor Pitt said the matter was reported on Thursday, January 4 at 10.19pm.

He said the woman was driving a car when she came out of Paradise Inn and crashed into the side of the store.

She was taken to hospital and a blood specimen was sought by police.

Goldmine burglary

On the Goldmine burglary, Pitt said while police do not have any CCTV footage, they are continuing their investigation.

He also said police were not in a position to provide any further details on the burglary, nor have they received an assessment of the value of the items stolen. 

Pitt said: “We do not have CCTV footage but the investigation is continuing along other lines.”

The alleged incident that happened on New Year’s Day was categorised as a “smash and grab burglary” that would be more commonly associated overseas than Rarotonga.

The Goldmine owner had declined to comment, referring all inquiries to the police.

Underage drivers

With a number of underage drivers caught last year, Pitt said parents and guardians are being warned.

During the Christmas weekend, 2023, a woman was charged for allowing a 14-year-old to drive.

She was charged with allowing an unlicenced person to drive a motor vehicle.

Pitt said they are not keeping statistical information on these incidents as they are too sporadic. 

“When the young drivers are caught by police, the parents or guardians are spoken to and warned about the dangers,” he said.

Alleged Hula Bar assault

The Hula Bar assault is still pending, says Pitt.

The alleged assault occurred on Saturday, December 23, at the Hula Bar where the alleged victim, reportedly an international league player, sustained injuries.

Pitt had earlier said that the case remains open and under investigation.

Avaavaroa drowning

The 50-year-old New Zealand man who lost his life at the Avaavaroa passage opposite YWAM in Vaimaanga, Titikaveka has been confirmed as a drowning.

He drowned late last month.

Pitt said the death of the tourist at Avaavaroa was confirmed as a drowning, according to the medical report submitted to the Coroner.