Police charge six males over crime spree in Perth northern suburbs

POLICE have charged six young people over an alleged Christmas Eve crime spree across three northern suburbs.

The six males, the youngest aged 14, were allegedly part of a group that broke into more than 40 vehicles in Gwelup, Innaloo and Carine in the early hours of December 24, 2018.

Mirrabooka Detectives said they smashed windows on the majority of vehicles to steal items including cash.

They also allege the group stole bikes and scooters from homes across the suburbs, which they used as transportation throughout the night.

Following information received from community members, detectives charged a 19-year-old Doubleview man with 26 stealing, attempted stealing and criminal damage offences.

A 22-year-old and 14-year-old from Armadale, 16-year-old Doubleview boy and 15-year-old Belmont boy were charged with 16 offences each and an Innaloo man (18) is facing one charge.

Scarborough Police Senior Sergeant Craig Wanstall thanked Mirrabooka Detectives for their “hard work and persistence” and people who provided CCTV footage he said was “largely responsible for the identification and apprehension”.

“I again stress to the community the need to secure your vehicles and park them in garages, carports, at the end of your driveways close to your homes and in well-lit areas,” he said.

“We continue to receive daily reports of vehicles being broken into and property stolen such as wallets, purses, cash, iPads and tablets.

“The high number of vehicles broken into in one night shows the vulnerability of vehicles when left overnight and the need to do everything possible to reduce this crime.”

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information should report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestopperswa.com.au.