[mhv_gold_card]
Friday, 18 July 2025 – A total of 23 people have been charged following a three-day police blitz across the Mid North Coast and Coffs/Clarence Police Districts under Operation Soteria, targeting high-impact crimes including break and enters, car thefts, and offenders boasting about crimes on social media.
The surge operation, which ran from Wednesday 9 July to Friday 11 July, saw officers conduct 57 bail compliance checks, 17 person searches, and 11 vehicle searches. Four knives were allegedly seized, and four wanted individuals – three women and a man – were arrested in the Kempsey area.
NSW Traffic and Highway Patrol officers carried out roadside testing, with 13 people allegedly returning positive drug results. Five drivers were also issued court notices for driving while disqualified.
The crackdown was also supported by Youth Command, which visited 12 homes as part of an outreach strategy to steer at-risk youth away from crime.
Key Incidents:
- SUV Theft and Police Ramming – Coffs Harbour:
Around 10:22pm on Wednesday 9 July, police tried to stop a stolen SUV on Solitary Islands Way. The driver allegedly rammed two police vehicles and was arrested after a struggle. The 35-year-old man was hit with 13 charges, including using a weapon to resist arrest, police pursuit, and multiple driving offences. He remains behind bars. - Teen With Machete – South Kempsey:
At 12:15am on Thursday 10 July, officers spotted a 13-year-old boy allegedly carrying a machete and wearing latex gloves. He was arrested after a short foot chase and is being dealt with under the Young Offenders Act. - Crash and Bail Breach – Telegraph Point:
Around 3:10am, a 19-year-old P-plater crashed into a barrier on the M1. One of her passengers, a 21-year-old man, was found hiding in bushland and charged with breaching bail. - High-Speed Chase and Arrests – Korora:
A vehicle was clocked at 110km/h in a 60 zone. Two men inside were arrested after police allegedly found jewellery and $4,550 in cash. One had a warrant for domestic offences. Both men were refused bail. - Teen Charged Over Yamba Caravan Park Break-In:
Around 11pm Thursday, a 17-year-old boy allegedly broke into a caravan and stole a Toyota SUV, leading police on a pursuit that ended in a crash and grassfire. He returned a mid-range alcohol reading and was hit with seven charges, including break and enter, PCA, and breach of bail.
Police say Operation Soteria will continue, with further arrests expected as investigations develop.
For more updates on crime and policing in your region, stay with MHV News.