Homes, businesses hit in weekend crime spree

Criminals targeted more than 20 commercial and residential properties across Bunbury at the weekend.

Ram-raiders smashed their way into Bunbury City Motorcycles on Stuart Street, Millard Marine on Sandridge Road and Mr Rental in Halifax Drive, while burglars struck at homes in Withers.

Acting Sen. Sgt Matt Leishman said burglaries were up 10 per cent compared with this time last year.

“There were a large number of attempts, including forced entry on commercial property and residential burglaries through Withers,” he said.

“Police are looking into the incidents, this was a big spate over the weekend and certainly higher than usual.”

Millard Marine owner Rod Vanoosten called the spate of burglaries atrocious and brazen.

It was the second time the business had been raided in four months, resulting in smashed windows and damaged property.

“We are frustrated because every time it happens it costs us $2000 to $3000,” he said.

“The piercing sirens we installed in the last security upgrade seemed to have worked, because I don’t think they were here long.”

Bunbury City Motorcycles was hit for the second time this year having its gates ram-raided and facing a damage bill of about $4000.

Owner Andrew Repacholi said “they made a hell of a mess”.

“The rise of crime in Bunbury is out of control. Ten years ago we didn’t have to lock our back gate. Now we are getting broken into three to four times a year,” he said.