A 28-year-old man from Dapto has been charged in connection with an armed robbery at a jewellery store in Unanderra, New South Wales. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, 15 October 2024, when police allege the man entered the store on the Princes Highway armed with a firearm and threatened staff before making off with an undisclosed quantity of jewellery.
Details of the Incident
According to NSW Police, officers from the Lake Illawarra Police District were called to the jewellery store shortly after 2:00 pm following reports of an armed robbery. Witnesses reported seeing a man enter the premises, produce a firearm, and demand jewellery from the employees. The suspect then fled the scene on foot, leaving the staff shaken but uninjured.
Police launched an immediate investigation, reviewing CCTV footage and speaking with witnesses. The following day, on Wednesday, 16 October 2024, detectives executed a search warrant at a home in Dapto, where they arrested the 28-year-old man. During the search, police allegedly seized items of jewellery believed to be stolen from the Unanderra store, as well as clothing and other evidence.
Charges Laid
The man was taken to Lake Illawarra Police Station and charged with one count of armed robbery with a dangerous weapon. He was refused bail and appeared before Wollongong Local Court on Thursday, 17 October 2024. The matter was adjourned to a later date, with the man remanded in custody.
Police have not released the value of the stolen jewellery but confirmed that investigations are ongoing. They are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
This incident has raised concerns among local business owners about security in the area. The Lake Illawarra Police District has assured the community that they are taking the matter seriously and will continue to patrol the area to prevent further crimes.
The accused is scheduled to appear in court again next month. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison for armed robbery.
