Police have so far been unable to solve an alleged home invasion carried out by an armed group at an east Auckland property eight months ago.
As the Times reported at the time, Binh Hoang set up an online fundraising page to help him recover from what he described as a “violent home invasion” at his Flat Bush property on January 2.
He said he was trying to recover from the “traumatic” incident which left him struggling to recover while jobless.
His online appeal, started on January 3, raised $1,690 from 48 donors.
“My life was turned upside down by a terrifying home invasion,” Hoang said.
“Armed intruders broke into our house, threatened us with guns, and stole our passports, phones, car keys, and cash.
“They also destroyed our doors while we tried to protect ourselves.”
His online appeal said he had been left with no savings.
He was struggling to make ends meet while jobless and faced urgent costs including flights and accommodation to replace passports, new car keys, and other damage not covered by insurance.
“I am seeking help to cover these essential expenses and rebuild our sense of safety.
“Currently, I am just trying to recover from the sudden lost [loss]. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help recover from this traumatic event and regain stability.
“Thank you for your kindness and support during this challenging time.”
Hoang said one member of the group was carrying what looked like a rifle.
The home invaders broke through his bedroom door and demanded money from him, he said.
They’re alleged to have stolen cash, paperwork, jewellery, a bank card and passports.
He later posted an update on his online fundraiser showing what he said was a photo of him travelling to Wellington on February 19 to get a new passport.
“Thank you everyone for the support,” he said.
“I was able to fly to Wellington and pay for the fees of the passport application.
“Again, thank you so much for the support.”
A police spokesperson initially said an investigation was under way into an aggravated robbery at a Flat Bush property.
“At around 9.45pm on January 2, four offenders gained entry to the property and demanded property from the occupants.
“It has been reported that one of these offenders was in possession with what is believed to be a firearm.
“Following this, the offenders have taken property and left the address in a vehicle.
“Police are still working to establish the circumstances surrounding what has taken place at the address.”
People who saw or heard any suspicious activity in the area at the time were asked to contact police.
“They can update us online now or call 105. Please use the reference number 250102/7094.”
The Times recently asked police for an update on the case.
In a statement, Counties Manukau East Police area investigations manager, detective senior sergeant Dean Batey, says police have completed enquiries into an aggravated robbery at a Flat Bush home in January.
“No charges have been laid as a result despite extensive enquiries being carried out.
“Police followed several lines of enquiry which did not eventuate, including speaking to one person of interest.
“Unfortunately, there was insufficient evidence to prosecute.
“While the matter was filed in late July, police remain open to looking into new lines of enquiry should these come to light.”
People with information on the incident can contact police on 105, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, and reference the file number 250102/7094.
