South West police have launched an investigation after thieves ram raided Grand Cinemas Bunbury earlier this week.
Around 12am on October 24, thieves stole two white Toyota Hilux vehicles from a business in Ilmenite Crescent, Capel.
The culprits used the vehicles to smash down one entrance to Grand Cinemas, Bunbury in the early hours of October 25.
They then used tools to damage, and remove money from, the ATM.
Bunbury Detective Senior Constable Rob Travers said police would continue making enquiries.
“It’s certainly a concern to police, in terms of the damage bills the thieves are causing for businesses,” he said.
“There’s also a risk they will injure other people or themselves,” he said.
“It’s a stupid act, they are going to hurt themselves or innocent people.
“We’ll be continuing our investigations and we hope to bring it to a successful resolution.
“The impact upon the people at the cinema is quite significant, the amount of damage and the monetary expense are massive.
“The same goes for the victims who own the vehicles, this impacts upon their daily lives and their ability run their business.”
In September, a ram raid on Treendale Shopping Centre saw thieves remove an ATM before dragging it along the road and onto Forrest Highway.
Gravity ETC was also targeted by thieves earlier this year, with the culprits using a vehicle to ram the centre’s automatic doors and remove a safe.
“We are investigating as to whether there are links to other ram raids,” Detective Travers said of the Grand Cinemas incident.
“We will continue to follow that line of inquiry.
“The methods used are quite similar to those of similar offences where by a vehicle has been used to smash its way through the entry of the premises.”
Detective Travers urged business owners to secure their vehicles and equipment before closing each day.
“I would encourage business owners to remain vigilant, speak to each other, and advise police of any CCTV opportunities within the vicinity,” he said.
Anyone with information has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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