Two teenagers have been charged following an alleged robbery and kidnapping in the Illawarra.
About 4.30pm on Friday 17 July 2026, police were called to a shopping complex on the corner of Cowper and King Street, Warrawong.
Officers attached to Lake Illawarra Police District attended and were told a 51-year-old man was approached by two unknown males on Barina Avenue, Lake Heights, before allegedly being forced into his car and directed to drive to a nearby bank to withdraw money.
On arrival at the bank, one of the males allegedly escorted the 51-year-old man inside; however, he fled the scene after being confronted by an employee. The second male also allegedly fled the area.
The 51-year-old man's wallet and cash were allegedly stolen from the vehicle.
Officers seized the utility and commenced inquiries under Strike Force Vadek.
As investigations continue, strike force officers have released two images of a Black SUV Range Rover with red P-plates, which was seen in the vicinity of the shopping complex carpark at the time of the incident.
Following investigations, about 8.10pm on Friday 31 July 2026, a 16-year-old boy was arrested at Lake Illawarra Police Station.
He was charged with take/detain person in company within intent to obtain advantage and robbery in company
He was granted strict conditional bail to appear in a Children's Court on Tuesday 25 August 2026.
About 6.30am, on Wednesday 5 August 2026, police executed search warrants at homes in Berkeley and Lake Heights.
Police allegedly seized clothing and mobile phones from both homes.
A 15-year-old boy was arrested at the Berkeley home and taken to Lake Illawarra Police Station. He was charged with take/detain person in company within intent to obtain advantage and robbery in company.
He was granted strict conditional bail to appear in a Children's Court on Wednesday 16 September 2026.
Inquiries are continuing.
