Business owners have been left shattered after a string of burglaries around Bunbury and Australind.
According to South West Police, thieves – wearing hoodies and gloves – stole a white Toyota Hilux ute from South Regional TAFE on Thursday, June 28.
Consisting of three individuals, the crew then broke into businesses across the Greater Bunbury Region.
Several business owners shared CCTV footage on Facebook, detailing the culprits and vehicle.
Bridgestone Tyre and Auto Service Treendale manager Colin Case said their Grand Entrance premises was breached at 1.55am.
Mr Case said the thieves pried open the fire exit door before stealing $100 and the cash register.
He noted they were chased from the scene by a police vehicle on patrol.
The thieves then went through a red light on Forrest Highway to escape from police.
Sandridge Village Fish ‘n’ Chips co-owner Shane Wait said the thieves broke into their premises at around 3am.
He said the culprits parked in front of the store before smashing the front door to get in.
They took around $2000 worth of security gear along with Lions Club charity trays.
He said witnesses gave a description of the vehicle to police.
Work Clobber Bunbury general manager Liz McNaughton told the Mail the ute and thieves were spotted on their CCTV system at 2.51am.
She said the culprits made multiple attempts to break in, before using a pair of bolt cutters to smash the premises’ glass doors.
The thieves then removed loose change, the till tray, and a Breast Cancer charity coin holder from the store.
Ms McNaughton said they were lucky the thieves didn’t cause major damage.
She said break-ins and thefts greatly hinder those trying to make a living.
Australind Police Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Mark Smith said police had strong lines of inquiry.
He also said he was confident the culprits would soon be in custody.
Police have urged anyone with information, or witnesses to the burglaries, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
