Carnarvon police issue warning to residents to keep cars locked after four juveniles went on crime spree

Police have issued a warning to the community to keep their vehicles locked and keys in a safe place, after a group of juveniles allegedly committed crimes across Carnarvon involving a stolen car. According to police, a hire car was stolen on Monday last week, before the offenders committed a ram raid at the Ampol in Carnarvon in the early hours the following morning. The four accused allegedly stole soft drinks and cigarette lighters. Police say the car was sighted heading south out of Carnarvon about 5am, and was later seen at 6.30am at the Overlander Roadhouse where they drove off without paying for fuel. Carnarvon police communicated with Geraldton officers, where they intercepted them north of Geraldton, but the accused allegedly failed to comply with directions from police. A pursuit began, with police deploying stingers to bring the car to a stop, before the vehicle became engulfed in flames. Four children were charged with several stealing, aggravated burglary and commit, stealing a motor vehicle, no authority to drive, failure to stop, and reckless driving to escape pursuit charges. Carnarvon police officer in charge Sen. Sgt Paul Tolan said the community should be wary of safety regarding their vehicles to help prevent instances like this. “We’re really pushing for vehicles to be secured, this hire car was left with the key inside the car,” he said. “Lock your vehicles, don’t leave keys alone, for motorbikes as well, they need to be locked away and chained up. “These offenders are opportunistic and will steal if given the opportunity.” One of the alleged offenders was referred to the juvenile justice team, while the other three accused are set to face Perth Children’s Court later this month.