Police suspect drug link in home invasions
Police believe a group of men responsible for a series of home invasions across Adelaide’s northern suburbs are motivated by drugs.
The latest in the string of incidents occurred at 6.30pm yesterday when two men, one armed with a shotgun and the other with what was described as a ‘taser on a stick’, forced their way into a home on Linton St at Para Hills.
There were eight people in the home at the time, including a baby.
The intruders tied up a man and zapped a woman with the cattle prod, before stealing cash, mobile phones and a black Holden Commodore sedan.
Police said the group of up to six young Aboriginal men had been involved in 11 home invasions in areas around Elizabeth, Smithfield, Para Hills, Munno Para, Andrews Farm and Craigmore since September 9.
A total of 13 people have been tied up during the string of home invasions, and six have sustained minor injuries.
Of the 11 home invasions, police say eight of the properties have a connection to growing, manufacturing or dealing drugs.
"Occupants of the homes have been threatened with a shotgun and what is believed to be a cattle prod, while the offenders make demands for drugs," Officer in Charge of Elizabeth CIB, Steve Taylor said.
A total of six cars have been stolen from victims during the home invasion spree, with four found burnt-out, one recovered with minor damage and the black Holden Commodore stolen in last night’s attack still missing.
Police say they are concerned that drugs were again the target of the Para Hills home invasion yesterday and have issued a warning to the public.
"Given there's a link to illicit drugs in the majority of the homes targeted, we're issuing a warning to anyone considering growing, manufacturing, dealing or taking drugs," Mr Taylor said.
"Aside from the obvious wider health and social concerns associated with drugs use, having any involvement with illicit drugs places you at risk of being targeted by criminals who are intent on engaging in drug ‘rip-offs’.
"There's no doubt these people are prepared to use violence to get what they are looking for.
"You operate in this environment and you're putting yourself - and your family - at risk."
Police have also appealed to the Aboriginal community for information that may help them identify the offenders.
"We know the Indigenous community are very close and have extended relationships and networks," Mr Taylor said.
"We also know that the vast majority of this community frown upon these types of crime.
"So we are calling on them to come forward with information before someone is seriously injured."
