Detectives have charged a second man over the alleged theft and arson of an unmarked police car and armed robbery of a supermarket in Sydney's north-west earlier this month.
On Saturday 31 October 2020, officers from The Hills Police Area Command, with assistance from the Robbery and Serious Crime Squad, commenced an investigation after a blue Ford Mondeo and white Peugeot hatchback were stolen from outside a home in Bella Vista.
Initial inquiries revealed the car keys were stolen during a break-in at the home, along with a number of NSW Police Force issued items, between 3am and 3.40am.
No police issue weapons were stolen.
About 5am, the police vehicle was found on fire in Oakley Road, Macquarie Fields, and was destroyed.
During the investigation, police were notified of an armed robbery at a supermarket at Camden Valley Way, Edmondson Park, just before 8pm on Sunday 1 November 2020.
Police were told a man – armed with a firearm – entered the store and threatened staff and customers, before stealing cash and leaving the scene in a white Peugeot hatchback.
A short time later, the vehicle was found on fire in parkland between Greenwell Road and Wagga Wagga Street at Prestons. It was destroyed.
Following initial inquiries, police arrested a 50-year-old Macquarie Fields man on Monday 2 November 2020.
He was charged over his alleged role in the offences and remains before the courts.
Strike Force Guthega was subsequently established by the State Crime Command's Robbery and Serious Crime Squad to continue investigations into the incidents.
Following further inquiries, detectives arrested a 32-year-old man at Mount Street, Mt Druitt, about 11.15am yesterday (Monday 16 November 2020).
He was taken to Mt Druitt Police Station where he was charged with drive motor vehicle during disqualification period, conspiracy to commit robbery while armed with dangerous weapon, aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence, and attempt dispose property-theft.
The man was refused bail to appear at Mt Druitt Local Court today (Tuesday 17 November 2020)
Investigations under Strike Force Guthega continue.
Anyone with information that may assist strike force detectives is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
