New South Wales Police have charged two men in connection with an alleged series of thefts occurring in shopping centre car parks across the state. The incidents reportedly involved offenders approaching older women, claiming a vehicle problem, and then stealing items such as wallets and cash while the victims were distracted. The investigation spans 18 reported incidents from Wagga Wagga to Forster, leading to the apprehension of two individuals who face a total of 72 charges each.
Investigation Details
Police have documented 18 similar incidents across New South Wales. These occurrences have been reported from Wagga Wagga in the state's south to Forster on the Mid North Coast. Specific locations where these incidents are alleged to have occurred include:
- Albion Park
- Ashfield
- Beecroft
- Berowra Heights
- Double Bay
- Forster
- Goulburn
- Newcastle
- Pennant Hills
- Penrith
- Shellharbour
- The Ponds
- Tumut
- Unanderra
- Wagga Wagga
A concentration of seven incidents was reported in the Riverina region over a recent weekend, specifically in Wagga Wagga, Tumut, Goulburn, and Yass. Riverina Police District Commander, Superintendent Andrew Spliet, has advised residents in regional areas to exercise caution when approached by unfamiliar individuals regarding their vehicles.
Alleged Modus Operandi
The alleged scheme involved two men approaching older women in shopping centre car parks. The individuals would reportedly claim there was a mechanical issue with the victim's vehicle, such as wires hanging from it. While one individual allegedly encouraged the victim to inspect under the bonnet or distracted them, a second accomplice would reportedly remove items, including wallets, purses, cash, and cards, from inside the vehicle.
One alleged victim, Libby Taylor, 64, reported being approached at a Lake Macquarie shopping centre. A man reportedly informed her of wires hanging from her car, identified himself as a mechanic, and opened the bonnet. While Ms. Taylor was allegedly distracted, another individual reportedly accessed the back passenger seat and took her wallet. Approximately 40 minutes later, Ms. Taylor received notifications of four transactions totaling over $14,000 made in Dubai. Ms. Taylor has not yet recovered the funds from her bank.
Arrests and Charges
Two men, aged 37 and 57, were apprehended on the state's Mid North Coast on Wednesday afternoon. During a search of their vehicle, police seized several items, including vehicle wires, international passports, $6,000 in cash, and receipts for money transfers. Both men have been charged with 72 offenses each. They were refused bail and are scheduled to appear in court.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are seeking public assistance to locate two additional men for questioning in connection with these incidents. Both individuals are described as Caucasian males in their 40s. Members of the public with relevant information are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers.