A 42-year-old woman is set to appear in the Christchurch District Court today after being arrested for an alleged burglary on Malvern Street, St Albans, early this morning.

Police were called to the residential address around 5:40 am after a report of an attempted break-in. The occupant’s security camera was triggered as soon as the alleged intruder entered the property.

Upon discovering the person inside, the resident acted quickly to temporarily detain the woman until police arrived shortly afterward.

The woman was arrested at the scene and is facing charges of burglary and being disguised for burglary.

Acting Senior Sergeant Luke Buutveld said the arrest underscored the value of security measures such as cameras and alarms.

“Prevention measures are the best way to reduce the chance of your property being targeted and increase the likelihood of the offender being identified and arrested if it is,” he said, advising homeowners to install security cameras, sensor lights, and alarm systems, and to keep doors locked and valuables out of sight.

Anyone who notices suspicious activity is urged to contact the police immediately on 111 if it is occurring or via 105 if reporting after the fact.