Burglars target Albany businesses

Businesses in Albany's industrial area were brought to a halt late last week after a burglary spree in the area caused extensive damage and inconvenience.

Business owners and staff in the industrial area around Barker Road, Sanford Road and Albert Road arrived at work on Friday morning to find windows and doors smashed.

Albany Refrigeration owner Greg Elliott said the mess brought his business to a halt for several hours.

"They ransacked the place, stole some phones and petty cash, but nothing serious," he said.

G&L Sheetmetal owner Wade Hanbury said nothing was stolen from his business but several doors were damaged.

"They didn't steal anything, they just threw a rock through the front door and a put a boot through the office door," he said. "They didn't even touch any coins or the camera, but they opened some mail."

Albany police acting Senior Sergeant Roger Creamer said it appeared the offenders were targeting cash.

"They have made a fair bit of mess," he said.

"In some instances, they have made away with small quantities of cash … some premises had no cash on the site."

Acting Sen. Sgt Creamer said the burglaries and damage were an inconvenience to businesses.

"We have had a fairly good run when it comes to commercial businesses," he said. "This has come as a sudden surprise."

Hours after the burglaries were committed, police arrested a 19-year-old Albany man and charged him with 13 counts of burglary and seven counts of stealing.

He was remanded in custody over the weekend and was due to face Albany Magistrate's Court yesterday.

Police are still making inquiries regarding other people of interest who may have been involved in the burglaries.

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Albany police on 131 444.