Arrest made after knifepoint carjacking in Ōamaru

A 23-year-old man was arrested last night in Ōamaru after holding a woman at knifepoint.

The man was reportedly attempting to steal vehicles near the hospital in the coastal North Otago town when he grabbed the woman out of her vehicle.

In a statement this morning Senior Sergeant Jason Mccoy of the Waitaki Police says police quickly arrested the man a short distance away.

However, before they did, he attempted to flee in the woman's car, which failed to start.

He moved on, stealing another vehicle and exiting the scene.

"He was stopped shortly after on Thames Street by a police officer and taken into custody without incident," the senior sergeant says.

"This would’ve have been a terrifying incident for the two victims, who were fortunately not injured, and they are being supported by police."

Police are thanking the witnesses and members of public that came to the victims' aid.

"There is no place for this activity in our community, and where it does occur we work hard to hold offenders to account and support those affected."

The man will face charges of aggravated robbery and driving while forbidden.

He is expected to appear in the Timaru District Court today (Wednesday, April 17).

The incident was reported to police at approximately 6.45pm on Tuesday.

Main image (Wikipedia): Overlooking Ōamaru.