Further two men charged over alleged $2 million theft at commercial stores, NSW

Detectives have arrested two further men as part of an investigation into the theft of more than $2 million worth of electronic equipment during commercial break-ins.

In January 2019, detectives from the Robbery and Serious Crime Squad established Strike Force Buttre to investigate a number of break-ins at retail stores and commercial properties across the Sydney Metropolitan area and the Central Coast.

Investigators arrested three men, aged 25, 30, and 35, earlier this month. They remain before the courts.

Following further inquiries, strike force detectives executed three search warrants at homes in Oakhurst, Hassall Grove, and St Clair just after 11.30am yesterday (Thursday 28 February 2019).

Investigators located a shot gun, ammunition, two replica firearms, methylamphetamine, documentation, and electronic equipment, which are alleged to have been stolen.

These items have been seized and will undergo forensic examination.

Strike force detectives arrested two men – aged 23 and 24 – near the properties and took them to Riverstone Police Station.

A 23-year-old Oakhurst man was charged with aggravated break and enter commit serious indictable offence, possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit, possess housebreaking implements, and do act intending to pervert the course of justice.

A 24-year-old St Clair man was charged with two counts of aggravated break and enter commit serious indictable offence.

Both men were refused bail to appear at Mt Druitt Local Court today (Friday 1 March 2019).

Investigations under Strike Force Buttre are continuing.

Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Buttre investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.

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