Three teenage boys will face court over a string of alleged break and enter offences spanning multiple suburbs on the Central Coast, police say.
Officers from the Brisbane Water Police District launched an investigation in April 2026 after a series of reported break-ins across the region.
Police allege at least six homes and one business were targeted in areas including Umina Beach, Pearl Beach, Erina, Wamberal, Patonga and Killcare Heights between April and May 2026. Four vehicles, along with personal items including a handbag and wallet, were also allegedly stolen.
Investigators established multiple crime scenes and later linked the incidents as part of the same alleged offending spree under Operation Soteria.
Following ongoing inquiries, about 10am on Friday 15 May 2026, police arrested three boys — aged 16, 15 and 15 — at a home in Woy Woy.
They were taken to Gosford Police Station where one of the 15-year-olds was charged with 14 offences including multiple counts of break and enter, vehicle theft-related offences, and participating in a criminal group.
A second 15-year-old was charged with 15 offences including aggravated break and enter, driving offences, larceny, shoplifting, and dealing with the proceeds of crime.
Both 15-year-olds were refused bail and appeared before the Children’s Court of New South Wales on Saturday 16 May 2026.
The 16-year-old was charged with 10 offences including aggravated break and enter, deception offences, shoplifting, and participation in a criminal group. He was granted conditional bail and is due to reappear before the Children’s Court on Friday 12 June 2026.
Police say inquiries under Operation Soteria are continuing.