Four teenagers are facing a string of charges after Queensland Police investigated a series of alleged vehicle thefts and break-ins across Cairns.
Police Operation Targets Alleged Crime Spree
The Queensland Police Service launched an investigation into several incidents that reportedly occurred between Tuesday, March 5, and the early hours of Wednesday, March 6. The alleged offences took place in the Cairns suburbs of Manunda, Manoora, and Parramatta Park.
Police allege the crimes involved the unlawful use of motor vehicles and break-ins at residential properties.
Arrests and Charges Laid
Following their inquiries, officers from the Cairns Property Crime Unit executed search warrants at two separate addresses in Manoora on Wednesday, March 6.
As a result of these actions, four male teenagers were taken into custody. A 14-year-old Manoora boy, a 15-year-old Manoora boy, a 16-year-old Manoora boy, and a 17-year-old Parramatta Park boy were all charged.
The charges brought against the youths include a total of ten offences. These are:
- Two counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle.
- Two counts of enter premises and commit an indictable offence.
- One count of attempted enter premises with intent.
- One count of receiving tainted property.
- Four counts of trespass.
Court Appearances and Police Commentary
The four accused teenagers are scheduled to appear before the Cairns Childrens Court at a later date to answer the charges.
Acting Inspector Jason Chetham of the Cairns Property Crime Unit commented on the police response. He stated that the arrests demonstrated the commitment of local officers to targeting property crime and holding offenders accountable.
"Police will continue to proactively target offenders committing these types of crimes within our community," Acting Inspector Chetham said. "These charges should serve as a warning to others that this criminal behaviour will not be tolerated."
The police investigation into the incidents is understood to be ongoing.
