Auburn detectives have charged two men as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged theft of baby formula across Sydney.
Detectives from Auburn Police Area Command last month commenced an investigation after receiving information regarding an organised retail theft syndicate targeting baby formula, and other pharmaceutical items, operating across Sydney.
Following extensive inquiries, a 53-year-old man was arrested at a shopping centre carpark on Queen Street near Harrow Road, Auburn, about 11.45am yesterday (Thursday 22 October 2020).
A search warrant was subsequently executed at a home in Greystanes, where officers seized 350 tins of baby formula, 42 bottles of vitamins and 47 tubs of menthol rub – all believed to be stolen.
About 2pm, a second search warrant was executed at a storage facility on Parramatta Road, Homebush, where detectives arrested a 40-year-old man and seized a further 1000 tins of baby formula, 1000 bottles of vitamins, 300 tubs of pawpaw cream and 100 electric toothbrushes – also believed to be stolen.
Items seized at both locations are believed to be worth an estimated $100,000.
About 5pm, a third search warrant was executed at an apartment on Gibbons Street, Auburn, where police seized clothing.
Both men were taken to Auburn Police Station, where the older man was charged with shoplifting. Police will allege he was facilitating the theft of the baby formula and pharmaceutical items.
The younger man was charged with deal with property proceeds of crime, and receive property-theft – serious indictable offence. Police will allege he was receiving stolen goods and exporting them overseas.
Both men were granted conditional bail to appear in Burwood Local Court on Thursday 12 November 2020.
