Police in the Australian Capital Territory are investigating a brazen theft where a group of masked youths allegedly stole more than $1500 worth of alcohol from a southside bottle shop in the lead-up to Christmas.
Security Footage Captures Alleged Theft
The incident occurred at a business within the Chisholm Village Shopping Centre in Tuggeranong. According to ACT Policing, security footage from December 12, 2025 shows multiple individuals, their faces concealed, entering the store.
The vision allegedly captures the group grabbing cases of beer and taking bottles directly from refrigerators before fleeing the premises without making any payment. Police state that five people were involved in the theft which resulted in a significant loss for the local business.
Police Appeal for Witness Information
Investigators have released details from the footage in the hope the public can assist. They believe at least three members of the group were dressed in all-black clothing. It is alleged the offenders left the scene in a vehicle.
Authorities are particularly keen to speak with a woman who entered the store shortly after the incident. "Police would particularly like to speak to a woman who entered the store shortly after the incident as she may have information about the vehicle the youths fled in," an ACT Policing spokeswoman said.
The woman is described as Caucasian with a fair complexion and medium-length brown hair. At the time, she was reportedly wearing a white shirt, dark pants, tan sandals, and carrying a brown cross-body handbag.
Community Urged to Contact Crime Stoppers
ACT Policing has urged anyone who recognises the woman or has any information about the theft to come forward. This includes other people who were in the vicinity of the Chisholm Village Shopping Centre that day.
Information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers via the ACT website. Police have asked that the reference number 8245661 be quoted in any correspondence related to the case.
The pre-Christmas theft has highlighted ongoing challenges for retailers and has prompted a renewed call for community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement.
