Man arrested after a spate of break and enters from properties and cars at Woonona, Bulli and Thirroul

A MAN has been arrested at Woonona following a police investigation into a spate of break and enter offences in the area over the weekend.

More than 20 reports of cars and properties being broken into at Thirroul, Woonona and Bulli have been made to police between Friday January 17 and Monday January 20.

Following extensive inquiries, about 3am yesterday (Tuesday) Wollongong Police issued a search warrant at a Woonona home where a large amount of property, medication and prescriptions, believed to be stolen from cars, homes and businesses in the northern Illawarra suburbs, were found and seized.

A man was arrested about 9.30am today at Woonona after allegedly attempting to evade police. Following a short foot pursuit through bushland and a creek, the 28-year-old man was taken to Wollongong Police Station. He was charged with 23 counts of larceny, two counts of break, enter and steal, two counts of take and drive conveyance, two counts of possess prescribed restricted substance, two counts of drive whilst suspended, dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception, escape police custody, resist arrest and breach of bail.

The man was refused bail and is due to face Wollongong Local Court today (Wednesday).

A senior constable suffered injuries to his knee during the arrest and was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance Paramedics before being taken to Wollongong Hospital for treatment.

Wollongong Police District Commander, Superintendent Evan Quarmby said the arrest serves as a reminder to anyone thinking of engaging in criminal activity.

“We have seen some fantastic work by our uniformed police in locating the man we allege is responsible for a large number of thefts,” Superintendent Quarmby said.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind the public to make sure that homes are locked and secured, security systems are installed and activated, and cars are locked.

“Please remember to keep your valuables safe, and if you see something – say something. We rely on the public to report suspicious behaviour, and we also rely on people reporting any property that has been stolen so we can investigate appropriately.”

Anyone with information about suspicious behaviour is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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