A man has been charged following an investigation into reports of trespassing and attempts to steal from rural properties in the state's Far West earlier this month.
On Tuesday 21 July 2026, Rural Crime Investigators attached to Central North Police District commenced an investigation following reports of trespassing and theft across two properties in Tilpa and Wanaaring.
Following inquiries, including with significant assistance from local landowners, officers located an unoccupied utility on the side of the road on Wilcannia Road, Wanaaring, just after 2.45pm the same day, before speaking with a 49-year-old man.
When the vehicle was searched a number of items were seized – including items alleged to have been stolen – and rounds of ammunition.
The 49-year-old man was arrested and taken to Bourke Police Station where he was charged with six offences,
- Enter building/land with intent commit indictable offence (two counts)
- Larceny value less than or equal to $2,000
- Goods in personal custody suspected being stolen (not motor vehicle)
- Possess ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority
- Driver not disclose identity of driver/passenger as required
He was granted conditional bail to appear before Cobar Local Court tomorrow (Wednesday 29 July 2026).
Later the same day (Tuesday 21 July 2026), as part of further inquiries, police located a man inside an unoccupied silver Ford utility on the side of the road on Wilcannia Road, Wanaaring, with a firearm in his possession.
The man ran into nearby bushland and despite extensive search efforts, was unable to be located. The firearm was seized.
About 7pm yesterday (Monday 27 July 2026), Rural Crime Investigators received information from Queensland Police that a 22-year-old man had been arrested for unrelated matters.
Ongoing inquiries are being conducted in New South Wales and Queensland by the Rural Crime Prevention Team in consultation with Queensland Police.
