Police are appealing for public assistance as part of ongoing investigations into multiple car thefts and fires in the state's west.
In May 2025, western region officers attached to Operation Soteria commenced investigations following reports of multiple vehicle thefts in West Wyalong, Griffith and Lake Cargelligo areas.
Police were told between 11pm and 7am on Wednesday 21 May 2025 and Thursday 22 May 2025, unknown persons forced entry into a home on Erskin Road, Griffith, before they stole a white Kia Cerato hatchback and left the scene.
About 6.35am on Thursday 22 May 2025, emergency services were called to the intersection of Ernie Hayes Memorial Drive and Lachlan Valley Way, Lake Cargelligo, following reports of a vehicle fire.
Fire and Rescue NSW extinguished the blaze, however the car was completely destroyed.
In a second incident, between 4.30pm and 7am on Thursday 22 May 2025 and Friday 23 May 2025, a silver Toyota Prado was stolen from a home on Grenfell Street, West Wyalong.
Police found the vehicle parked on Townsend Street, Lake Cargelligo before being seized for forensic examination.
Following inquiries, police would like to speak to the owner/occupants of a black Suzuki Swift seen in the area at the time.
Police established multiple crime scenes and commenced an investigation into the incidents.
There were no reports of injuries.
Police are following a line of inquiry that both incidents are linked.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au Information is managed on a confidential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
