Two teenage boys have been charged following an alleged home invasion in the state's western region, under Operation Soteria.
About 11.40am yesterday (Sunday 30 November 2025), police were called to a house on Herbert Street, Collarenebri, about 75km north east of Walgett, following reports of a home invasion.
Officers attached to Central North Police District attended and were told a boy allegedly entered the home, where an 85-year-old man was assaulted and had his car keys stolen.
The boy then allegedly left the scene in the man's vehicle before the arrival of police.
Police established a crime scene and commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
A short time later, police stopped the vehicle on Queen Street, Collarenebri.
The two occupants – boys aged 15 and 16 – ran from the vehicle.
They were arrested nearby following a foot pursuit and taken to Walgett Police Station.
The 16-year-old boy was charged with aggravated enter dwelling with intent - use corporal violence, enter dwelling with intent (steal), take and drive conveyance without consent of owner and driver never licensed.
He was refused bail to appear before a children's court today (Monday 1 December 2025).
The 15-year-old boy was charged with be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner.
He was granted conditional bail to appear before a children's court on Monday 8 December 2025.
