QUEENSLAND Police have launched a widespread investigation into a series of break and enters targeting businesses across the Redlands and Bayside areas over the past fortnight.
Between April 2 and April 10, multiple offences were reported at service stations, convenience stores, tobacconists and cafes.
Police believe the break-ins may be linked, with offenders breaking into – or attempting to break into –commercial properties across more than a dozen suburbs.
The affected areas include Alexandra Hills, Bulimba, Capalaba, Eagleby, Holmview, Kangaroo Point, Manly West, Ormeau, Springwood, Sunnybank, Tingalpa, Upper Mount Gravatt, Victoria Point, Wellington Point, Wishart and Wynnum West.
Detectives say no physical altercations have been reported in relation to the break-ins.
However, police are appealing to the public for any information, CCTV or dash-camera footage that could assist with investigations.
In a separate incident, police are also investigating an assault that occurred about 10.30pm on April 10 at a tobacconist on Finucane Rd, Capalaba.
Two armed men entered the store and attacked a male employee during a disturbance.
The victim suffered minor injuries to his torso.
At this stage, authorities say there is no evidence linking the assault to the recent break and enters.
Bayside Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) Officer in Charge, Detective Senior Sergeant Christopher Lafferty, said police were committed to identifying those responsible and preventing further offences.
“Crimes of this nature are appalling, and police are focused on finding those responsible, and disrupting any further offences in our community,” he said.
“The impact of these offences doesn’t just mean a broken window or door needs to be replaced – it can affect a business’s income and seriously impact the safety and wellbeing of owners and staff.”
Detectives are following several leads and have stepped up patrols across affected areas.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Policelink online at police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by phone on 131 444.
Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Quote reference number QI2500571188 when providing information.
For daily crime updates, follow Redland Bayside News on Facebook.
