Four people have been charged with looting overnight as part of Operation Uniform Nash, as Queensland Police target property crime and protection of properties in flood affected areas.
Police say that officers conducting patrols on Ipswich Road at Rocklea intercepted two vehicles, one towing a trailer, at approximately 7.30pm on Tuseday.
Police will allege the trailer and vehicles were loaded with dozens of wheels and tyres, allegedly taken from outside a business impacted by flooding.
Tyres were also piled in the vehicle’s back and front seat, in addition to the trailer.
A 30-year-old Rocklea man was charged with stealing by looting and is expected to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on March 31.
In a separate incident (pictured, main photo), a vehicle was intercepted by officers patrolling on the M1 at Woolloongabba, at approximately 1am Wednesday March 2.
“Police will allege the three occupants have attended several private properties, yards and carparks impacted by flooding and collected a variety of items including camping gear and copper wire,” Queensland Police said.
“While conducting a search of the vehicle, it will be alleged a small quantity of drugs, syringes and ammunition were also located.”
A 50-year-old Mount Gravatt man has been charged with stealing by looting in natural disaster and possessing explosives (ammunition).
A 44-year-old St Lucia woman has been charged with one count each of stealing by looting in natural disaster, possessing dangerous drugs and failing to dispose of syringes.
A 50-year-old Wishart man has been charged with stealing by looting in natural disaster and possess dangerous drugs.
They are all expected to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on May 18.
Officers are conducting around the clock patrols as part of Operation Uniform Nash in an attempt to disrupt and prevent opportunistic thieves from targeting homes and businesses already victim to flooding.
Utilising officers on the ground, Water Police and POLAIR, Operation Uniform Nash has been assembled to defend and support flood affected communities across the south east as the vast clean up begins, Queensland Police said.
“Belongings in flood affected areas are private property, regardless of whether it is in homes or on the street. Those stealing will be charged and are liable to a maximum of 10 years imprisonment.”
Police urge anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour, or believes they may be victim to looting, to immediately contact Policelink on 131 444
