Duo to face court for multiple thefts and assault
ACT Policing has arrested two men after they allegedly drove a stolen car, committed multiple bag snatches, and assaulted two women yesterday (Thursday, 20 July 2023).
The first incident involved the alleged theft of a dark red Holden Commodore in the early hours of yesterday morning from a residence in Narrabundah.
About 9.10am that morning, police allege they drove to Kingston in the stolen Commodore and attempted to steal a handbag from a woman in a parked car but were unsuccessful.
Following this, the men then drove to Fyshwick and about 9.45am they allegedly assaulted a woman and stole her handbag.
The stolen vehicle was then spotted in Curtin about 2.25pm, where police allege the duo stole groceries from a woman who was packing them into her car.
Police also received reports that the duo had allegedly snatched the bag of another woman in Deakin about 2.40pm.
The men were then seen driving around Canberra at excessive speeds (up to 45km over the posted limit in residential areas) and on the wrong side of the road throughout Weston Creek and Coombs.
Police engaged the vehicle in a pursuit into Curtin, which was terminated by police as the vehicle approached a primary school and shopping complex.
By 3.30pm, the two men were cornered by police in a cul-de-sac in Curtin where they attempted to flee on foot but were apprehended with the assistance of the police Canine Team.
Police would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed any of yesterday’s incidents.
The men – a 40-year-old from Mawson, who was subject to a good behaviour order, and a 35-year-old from Phillip, who was on parole – are set to face the ACT Magistrates Court today (Friday 21July 2023).
The 40-year-old man has been charged with drive stolen motor vehicle, joint commission attempt minor theft, joint commission aggravated robbery (x2), joint commission minor theft, breach good behaviour order, unlicenced driving, dangerous driving, and drug driving.
The 35-year-old has been charged with joint commission attempt minor theft, ride in stolen motor vehicle, joint commission aggravated robbery (x2), joint commission theft, and breach of parole.
Anyone who can assist the investigation, or who has CCTV or dash-cam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website.
Please quote 7487764.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
POLICE MEDIA — (02) 5126 9070 act-police-media@afp.gov.au