Fake ID seizures on rise in Christchurch | Canterbury News | Local News in Canterbury

The number of fake IDs being seized in Christchurch has increased as police and bar staff take a tough stand against underage drinkers.

Between 20 and 25 teenagers are caught each week using false identifications, including drivers' licences, passports and 18+ cards.

Sergeant Noel Brown said most young people were using drivers' licences belonging to friends to get into bars underage.

"One common trick is to give your learners or restricted licence to your friends when you move on to the next level licence," he said.

Other scams include altering or forging a document. Brown warned fraudulent use of id could have serious consequences.

People caught and charged under the Sale of Liquor Act can face a maximum $2000 fine.

Those charged under the Crimes Act are liable to a jail term of no more than seven years.

Police, the District Licensing Agency and Community and Public Health representatives meet each month to liaise and set targets over the issue.

A covert monitoring team is sent out fortnightly to target premises for drunk patrons and minors.

The team has produced a fraudulent-ID noting form, which has made it easier for door staff.

"It is relatively easy to fill in and allows police to link the id with the person who seized it, to the person who presented it, Brown said.''

"It also gives us and the premises a record of licences seized," Brown said.

He said the number of IDs being seized was on the rise because of increased vigilance by security staff.