Police in the Tweed-Byron District are investigating claims of vigilantism made in community Facebook groups on the Northern Rivers.
An anonymous poster has reportedly claimed to have ‘stolen back’ stolen bikes such as e-bikes and e-scooters in an effort to have the goods returned to their rightful owners, or to teach the thieves a lesson, or both.
A police media spokesperson on Monday told The Echo at least three such recovered goods had been alluded to in anonymous posts shared among various community Facebook groups on the Northern Rivers, including in Ballina.
The posts reportedly described incidents of the vigilantism around the Banora Point area in the Tweed Shire, part of the Tweed/Byron Police District.
The Echo was invited to search for the posts but could later only find one that was potentially defamatory accusing someone in the community of receiving stolen goods.
Local police were investigating the posts, the spokesperson said.
Vigilantes will be charged, says Superintendent
The comments came after Tweed-Byron Police earlier this week posted to social media saying they’d received reports of vigilante behaviour in the community.
The post was still live as of Tuesday morning, with Tweed-Byron PD Commander, Superintendent David Roptell, saying those conducting illegal vigilante activities can expect to be arrested and charged.
Sup’t Roptell says it’s crucial police handle criminal matters so their efforts aren’t hindered, and community members aren’t placed in danger.
Police are urging residents to report any criminal activity to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, and in an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
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