Whyalla man arrested over break-ins

It will be alleged on Monday 15 June, a lone suspect forced entry to a service station at Cleve and stole a safe containing a quantity of cash.  Police, including detectives and crime scene investigators, attended and examined the crime scene.

CCTV inquiries revealed a white station wagon bearing stolen number plates was involved in the incident.

Police responded to a second incident at another service station in Cowell.  It will be alleged the same offender, in the same vehicle, attempted to gain entry to the business, however, no access was gained and nothing was stolen.

Today, Wednesday 17 June, Whyalla CIB detectives located and stopped the vehicle in a traffic stop.  The driver, a 21-year-old Whyalla Stuart man, was allegedly found in possession of stolen cash.  He also tested positive to methamphetamine.

A subsequent search of his Whyalla Stuart home allegedly uncovered the stolen safe, a quantity of knives and further evidence.

The 21-year-old man was arrested and charged with two counts of serious criminal trespass and two counts of theft. He was refused bail and will appear in the Whyalla Magistrates Court tomorrow, Thursday 18 June.