A relief from car thefts and break-ins has been short-lived, with a Deniliquin business the target of thieves for the second time in three weeks on Tuesday evening.
Earlier this week, police reported there had been only one minor property related crime reported between Thursday last week and Monday morning.
It was the first time in three weeks a significant property crime has not been reported.
But then news came in Wednesday morning of another business break-in.
Deniliquin Police Acting Inspector Mitch Lalor said the bottle shop at the Deniliquin Coach House Hotel was victim to a ‘smash and grab’ style incident.
CCTV footage of the incident has since been shared on social media by the business, in the hopes of ending what appears to be a never-ending cycle of crime.
They have also shared footage of the break-in three weeks earlier for the first time.
While police are reluctant to refer to it as a crime spree, the sheer number of incidents in the community over the last few weeks has elicited a strong response from community members.
In this week’s incident, Act Insp Lalor said alcohol was the primary target.
“Two unknown persons smashed the window of the bottle shop and then entered via the smashed window,” Act Insp Lalor said.
“A large amount of alcohol - specifically 15 bottles of liquor - was stolen.
“The police investigation remains ongoing.
“Anyone with information is urged to contact Deniliquin Police on 5881 9299 or CrimeStoppers on 1300 333 000.
“Information can be provided anonymously.”
This week’s break-in occurred about 2.10am Wednesday.
On the post shared by The Coach House Hotel, supporters and fellow business owners have commented on the disappointing act, and the impact it has on the community.
One fellow business owner, who has also been targeted in this recent spate of crimes, said it is “is not fair on us hardworking locals”.
“This is getting beyond a joke in this town,” the business owner said.
“It’s hard enough running a small business.
“So sorry this has happened to you guys yet again.”
Others responded with comments like “what is happening to our beautiful town”.
“This makes me so freaking angry. I really feel for you. Working so hard and doing an amazing job and this shit keeps happening. I hope you get a result with your footage,” one wrote.
“Scary this is happening in Deni. Sorry guys this is happening to you,” wrote another.
Some of the comments suggested the people in the footage shared by The Coach House Hotel looked similar to those who had shown up in other CCTV footage not released to the public.
Police, however, have not formally indicated whether any of the recent incidents are connected.