UPDATE: A 16-year-old boy has been charged in connection with a shocking series of vehicle thefts and break-ins in Griffith. This urgent development follows a string of crimes that have alarmed local residents and prompted intensified police action.
Authorities from the Murrumbidgee Police District have confirmed that the teen was arrested on October 9, 2023, after a thorough investigation into multiple incidents. Alarmingly, these include a break-in at a business on Kooyoo Street where cash was stolen shortly after 3:00 AM on August 16, 2023. The suspects fled in a stolen 2006 gold Kia Carnival, which was later found ablaze.
In another incident, around 1:00 AM on August 22, 2023, three individuals allegedly broke into an auto business on Farronato Road, stealing keys to several vehicles, including a 2020 white Ford Ranger utility. This stolen vehicle was also discovered burned shortly after.
The police operation, dubbed Operation Regional Mongoose, is focused on tackling serious property-related crime, primarily involving young offenders. The investigation continued with another break-in at a dental surgery on Noorebar Avenue, which took place around 10:00 AM on August 24, 2023. CCTV footage revealed the presence of three suspects inside the business.
Following these alarming incidents, police executed a search warrant at a home in Griffith, leading to the arrest of the 16-year-old. He has been charged with multiple offenses, including two counts of aggravated break and enter, one count of aggravated break and enter with the intent to steal, and additional charges for vehicle theft and property damage. He was denied bail and is scheduled to appear in children’s court on October 10, 2023.
As investigations continue, police urge anyone with information about these crimes to contact Griffith Police at (02) 6969 4299 or reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.
This ongoing situation raises significant concerns for the community, as local residents seek answers and security in the wake of these alarming events. Stay tuned for further updates as authorities work to resolve this troubling series of thefts.
