Yenda’s Friendly Grocer is preparing to upgrade security following a break-in during the early hours of Monday.
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The front window of the building was smashed at around 2.30am on Monday and an estimated $3000 of cigarettes were taken.
Following the break-and-enter, Griffith police have charged a Leeton man with a number of property offences after officers chased a car from Yenda to Leeton on Monday.
Murrumbidgee Police District’s Inspector Nick Seddon said officers received a phone call about a Holden Astra in Yenda.
When officers arrived in Yenda they attempted to stop the Astra but the driver is alleged to have ignored police directives to stop and driven towards Leeton.
Officers pursued the car until having to call off the chase due to concerns about safety.
Inspector Seddon said police later found the car and arrested the driver, a 41-year-old man from Leeton.
After the car was searched by police, the man was charged with possessing goods in custody – he will face Griffith Local Court at a later date.
“We believe the property was stolen from the grocer,” Inspector Seddon said.
“The car and property are being forensically examined.”
Inspector Seddon said the property which had been recovered would be returned.
Meanwhile, Griffith detectives are continuing to investigate the break and enter and are looking to identify anyone else who may have been involved.
Police are expecting further charges to be laid.
Grocery director Manjit Lally said the theft was a “big blow” for the business.
“It’s the first time we’ve been broken into, we’ve been working there for four years,” Mr Lally said.
“We will be upgrading security, we have no other choice.
“It’s another cost on top of repairs and lost stock.”
Mr Lally was hopeful Yenda’s police station would eventually be permanently staffed to help prevent crime in the village.
Anyone with any further information is encouraged to contact Griffith police station on 6969 4299 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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