Looting spree in sodden Lismore

As if Lismore residents don’t have enough to deal with, now 17 people have been charged with offences related to loitering, looting and intimidation.

Police have arrested one man for theft and intimidation and moved on 16 other people from the Lismore CBD over the past 24 hours as a result of reports of looting.

A 41-year-old man from Jiggi was issued with a Court Attendance Notice for allegedly stealing property and intimidating locals who confronted the man. This man will appear in Lismore Local Court on May 7.

Richmond LAC crime manager, detective chief inspector Cameron Lindsay said, ‘it appears some people believe flood damaged property equals you can help yourself to whatever you like.’

‘Residents are purely moving items outside to clean them off and return them inside businesses or homes and due to this activity are now becoming victims of theft.’

Chief ins Lindsay said many of the 16 people who were reported as acting suspiciously in the CBD were ‘eyeing off residents’ property that was not being discarded. Lismore residents should report those people who are acting suspiciously or are seen to steal items not belonging to them to police.’

‘Police have increased mobile, foot and bicycle patrols in and around the Lismore CBD and police are urging all of those non residents or business owners to stay out of the CBD as there is a long way to go before the area is deemed safe,’ he said.

Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/