Invercargill Police have charged two people today in relation to a recent spate of cigarette and tobacco thefts.

A 17-year-old youth appeared in the Invercargill District Court today facing two charges of burglary in relation to $17,000 worth of tobacco stolen from Centre Street dairy in South Invercargill on two separate occasions on 17 and 22 May respectively. 

The youth also faced a charge of aggravated robbery in relation to Grasmere dairy robbery that occurred on 27 May, where tobacco valued at $1400 was taken. 

Invercargill Police Detective Sergeant John Kean said a 16-year-old youth was also spoken to by Police in relation to receiving stolen tobacco and was referred to Youth Aid. 

He said to date Police have not recovered any of the tobacco.

Police are aware of other people involved in both incidents, in particular the aggravated robbery at Grasmere dairy. 

If anyone has any information please call Invercargill Police at 03 2110400. 

Information can also be provided anonymously by calling CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.