A teenager will face court today, one of four youths arrested over vehicle thefts in the state’s north.
In November 2022, Operation Mongoose recommenced to target property offences, including vehicle thefts and break and enter offences, throughout Oxley Police District.
About 3am yesterday (Wednesday 20 September 2023), officers attached to the operation were patrolling South Tamworth, when they sighted a Toyota Hilux and a Toyota C-NR travelling together on Petra Avenue.
Checks revealed both vehicles were reportedly stolen and shortly after both vehicles stopped in south Tamworth and eight youths were seen fleeing the abandoned vehicles.
Two boys, aged 11, and a 13-year-old girl were arrested and taken to Tamworth Police Station, where they were later released pending further inquiries.
Following further inquiries, officers arrested a 14-year-old boy at a home in Tamworth, about 2am today (Thursday 21 September 2023).
He was taken to Tamworth Police Station and charged with two counts of take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, and dishonestly obtain financial benefit by deception, participate in criminal group, and breach of bail.
The teen was refused bail to appear at a children’s court today (Thursday 21 September 2023).
Inquiries under Operation Mongoose continue.
Anyone with information about Operation Mongoose is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
