Seven people have been arrested following a series of break-ins, attempted burglaries and vehicle thefts across the Whyalla area over the weekend.Police allege the crime spree began shortly after midnight on Sunday when an attempt was made to enter a home in Whyalla Stuart at about 12.15am. No entry was gained and nothing was stolen.
Just 15 minutes later, the occupant of another Whyalla Stuart residence woke to discover a male intruder inside the home. The suspect fled after being confronted by the resident, and no property was reported stolen.
Investigators also linked the suspects to a burglary at a home in Whyalla Norrie that occurred between 11pm on Saturday and 5.30am on Sunday. During that incident, offenders allegedly broke into the property and stole two Ford sedans.
Later on Sunday, at about 11.45am, a home in Whyalla Stuart was entered through an unlocked rear door. A wallet, car keys and a Kia SUV were stolen from the property.
Police have since recovered all of the stolen vehicles.
Following investigations, officers arrested seven people in connection with the incidents.
Five boys from Whyalla, aged 11, 12, 13, 14 and 17, were charged with unlawful possession. All were granted bail and are scheduled to appear in the Whyalla Youth Court on August 4.
A 15-year-old boy from Port Augusta West was charged with illegal use of a motor vehicle, resisting arrest and unlawfully being on premises. He was bailed to appear in the Port Augusta Youth Court on July 15.
Police also charged a 19-year-old man from Whyalla Stuart with unlawful possession. He was granted bail and is due to appear in the Whyalla Magistrates Court on August 10.
Investigations into the incidents remain ongoing.
