Townsville Hit by Break-ins

Police in Townsville have charged two individuals, a 25-year-old man and a 14-year-old boy, following a series of break-ins and vehicle thefts that occurred early on April 14, 2026. The incidents involved forced entries and thefts in the Alice River and Burdell areas.

The first incident occurred around 3:30 AM at a residence in Therese Court, Alice River, where intruders stole vehicle keys. The offenders attempted to steal a Mercedes GLC300 and an Isuzu D-Max but were intercepted by a resident, which led them to flee in the Isuzu, leaving the Mercedes behind. Subsequently, around 4:20 AM, the same or related offenders broke into a property on Barramundi Circuit, Burdell, stealing keys and personal items and were nearly captured by awakened residents.

The series of events culminated around 7:00 AM when police, responding to a call, detained two suspects near Denny Court and Ring Road, Alice River, with the help of local citizens. The suspects, a 25-year-old man from Aitkenvale and a 14-year-old boy from Annandale, face charges including unlawful use of a motor vehicle. The adult suspect is also charged with possessing dangerous drugs and related offenses.

Townsville Police are urging anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage to come forward to assist with ongoing investigations. These efforts are part of Operation Yankee Forge, a six-month initiative aimed at reducing high-volume crimes such as vehicle theft and break-ins, enhancing community safety across Queensland through coordinated police activities.

For emergencies, the public can contact the police at 000, or for less urgent matters, reach Policelink at 131 444 or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.