On Monday October 5, the Windmill Tavern had closed for the evening when a vigilant member of the community alerted police to suspicious activity in the vicinity of Pangee Street.

Police searched the area and found three teenagers lying in long grass, hidden from view behind a low brick wall.

One of the teens was wearing a home-made face mask which police believe was designed to counter CCTV cameras in and around the hotel.

The suspect was also wearing gloves which police allege was to avoid leaving fingerprints at the crime scene.

Text messages on one of the suspect’s mobile phone gave further evidence of the plot to commit a burglary, so all three were arrested and taken to Nyngan police station.

The suspects argued that no crime had been committed, however, section 114 of the Crimes Act states that

possession of tools and face disguises with the intention of committing break-and- enter offences is punishable by seven years in prison if a conviction is made.

Sergeant Tony Wood of Nyngan Police said, “This incident demonstrates the value of a community working with police to keep Nyngan safe.

“One phone call from a resident undoubtedly prevented a burglary and saved a local business from losing thousands of dollars in theft and property damage, and insurance premiums.”

The suspects were charged with a number of offences and placed under virtual house arrest with strict curfew bail conditions so police can constantly monitor their whereabouts.

They face Nyngan Children’s Court next month.