Four search warrants executed, two charged, NSW

Charges have been laid against two males, and another remains wanted, as part of ongoing investigations into stealing offences at retail stores by Strike Force Arpen.

In June 2019, investigators from North West, South West and Central Metropolitan Region Commands and the State Crime Command’s Criminal Groups Squad established Strike Force Arpen to investigate numerous thefts from retail stores across the Sydney Metropolitan area.

Following inquiries, officers executed a search warrant at a home on Vintage Place, Minchinbury on Thursday 1 August 2019.

Officers allegedly located and seized numerous items during the search, relating to thefts throughout the Sydney region.

A 16-year-old boy, who was already in custody relating to previous similar matters, was charged on Tuesday (6 August 2019), with 12 further counts of larceny and participate in criminal group

He remains refused bail and is next expected to appear at a children’s court on Tuesday 20 August 2019.

As part of the investigation, three further search warrants were executed in Sydney’s west yesterday (Wednesday 7 August 2019).

About 7am, a search warrant was executed at a home on Carpenter Street, Colyton.

During the search of the property, officers seized an air pistol, as well as electronic devices and a Jeep Patriot.

Two men, aged 22 and 20, were arrested at the home and taken to Mt Druitt Police Station.

The 20-year-old man was subsequently charged with four counts of larceny, two counts of receive/dispose stolen property, possess unauthorised pistol, and participate criminal group contribute criminal activity.

Police will allege in court the man acted as the “driver” and participated in several stealing incidents, driving the group to and from stores.

He was refused bail to appear at Mt Druitt Local Court today (Thursday 8 August 2019).

The older man was released pending further inquiries.

A search warrant was also executed at a home on Ophir Grove, Mt Druitt about 7am.

In relation to that search warrant, a 23-year-old man remains wanted over allegations he stole from his employer.

A further warrant was executed at a home on Belmore Avenue, Mt Druitt, about 1.25pm.

This warrant relates to a 15-year-old boy alleged to be involved in stealing offences, and who is already in custody for unrelated robbery matters.

Detective Inspector Glyndwr Baker, Crime Manager at Ryde Police Area Command, said inquires by the Strike Force will continue.

“Strike Force Arpen will continue to pursue all avenues of investigation until all the offenders are before the court.

“The community continue to work closely with Strike Force Arpen investigators,” Detective Inspector Baker said.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

/Public Release. View in full here.