Man to face Court on aggravated burglary, robbery and firearm offences
A 39-year-old NSW man will face the ACT Magistrates Court this morning (Thursday, 10 August) following a string of aggravated burglaries and an aggravated robbery targeting Canberra clubs in July and August.
About 3.12am on 16 July 2017, two male offenders forced entry into the Canberra Irish Club in Weston, leaving empty handed. About 3.44am that morning, two male offenders also forced entry into the Southern Cross Yarralumla Yacht Club, stealing the Automatic Teller Machine from the premises.
About 3.45am on 23 July 2017, two male offenders armed with a firearm forced entry into the Turner Rugby Union Club, stealing the Cash Redemption Machine.
About 3.55am on 24 July 2017, two male offenders forced entry into the Harmonie German Club in Narrabundah armed with a firearm, leaving empty handed.
About 4.10am yesterday (9 August 2017), two male offenders entered Hotel Kurrajong in Barton. Police will allege the 39-year-old man pointed a firearm at an employee’s face and demanded cash. The offenders then fled with a sum of cash and a safe.
About 5.04pm yesterday, the 39-year-old was arrested in Lyneham and later conveyed to the ACT Watch House. Members from Criminal Investigations executed search warrants at addresses in Scullin and Lyneham, locating and seizing a prohibited firearm and ammunition.
Acting Superintendent of Criminal Investigations Matt Reynolds said police had been following a number of significant leads in these investigations and working with the businesses involved.
“This outcome demonstrates our commitment to ensuring those responsible for these crimes are removed from our community,” said Acting Superintendent Reynolds.
“These crimes really affect the businesses and staff targeted, and we are pleased to see these offenders off our streets. If you commit these types of offences, we will be relentless in our efforts to ensure you are caught and face the full extent of the law.”
The man will face the ACT Magistrates Court this morning charged with aggravated robbery with an offensive weapon, possession of a prohibited firearm, four counts of aggravated burglary and breach of parole.
Investigations are ongoing, with one suspected co-offender currently remanded in custody in relation to other offences.
Investigations are also continuing into related aggravated burglaries. If you have any information that could further assist police, you are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the website at www.act.crimestoppers.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.
Media enquiries
Police Media — (02) 6264 9460, act-police-media@afp.gov.au