Two teenage boys have been arrested and charged by police in connection with a significant alleged break-in and vandalism incident at the Muswellbrook Fair Shopping Centre.
Significant Damage Ahead of Christmas Rush
Police were first called to the shopping complex on December 3, 2025, following reports of extensive damage to several stores. Authorities stated the vandalism resulted in thousands of dollars worth of damage.
A police statement highlighted the severity of the timing, noting the incident occurred in the lead-up to the busy Christmas trading period, a critical time for retailers.
Joint Investigation Leads to Arrests
New England police worked alongside officers from the Hunter Valley to investigate the incident. Their inquiries led them to a home on Borthwick Street in Inverell.
At about 12.30pm on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, police executed a search warrant at the property. During the operation, they arrested two boys, aged 12 and 14.
A search of the residence allegedly uncovered items believed to be stolen, as well as several knives, including a machete.
Multiple Charges Laid in Children's Court
Both youths were taken to Inverell Police Station for questioning. The 14-year-old boy was charged with seven counts of aggravated break and enter.
Police refused him bail, and he was taken before the Bail Division Children's Court. He was later granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear at Muswellbrook Children's Court in January.
The 12-year-old boy faces seven identical charges of aggravated break and enter related to the Muswellbrook incident. Additionally, he was charged over an alleged armed robbery at Singleton on December 20, 2025.
He was also refused police bail but was subsequently granted conditional bail by the Bail Division Children's Court. He is likewise due to face Muswellbrook Children's Court in January 2026.
