Highway bandits halted at gunpoint

By Jo Kennett

INSPECTOR VANDERGRIEND said the stolen car was allegedly used in “various offences” in Queensland “so that’s how they knew the occupants.”

“The older male was wanted for armed robbery and numerous burglary offences along with car theft offences,” he said.

“They were all wanted for alleged burglary and using stolen cars.

“I think it is a good message to send to criminals in Queensland that choose to come across the border into NSW that they will be arrested and dealt with accordingly.

“Polair helps us to more effectively track offenders and monitor them as they cross the border until they are arrested whether they choose to remain in the vehicle or are on foot.”

The trio were taken to Tweed Heads Police Station where the 17-year-old driver was charged with police pursuit – not stopping – driving dangerously, driving a motor vehicle while on a suspended licence, two counts of receiving property stolen outside NSW and one count of possessing a prohibited drug.

The 16-year-old passenger was charged with receiving property stolen outside NSW, using offensive weapons to prevent lawful detention and travelling in/on part of a vehicle not for passengers/goods (out the sunroof of the car).

The 28-year-old passenger was charged with two counts of receiving property stolen outside NSW.

All three were refused bail, with the teenagers appearing before a children’s court and the man appearing before Tweed Heads Local Court on Friday, February 10.