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NSW gang ransack Apple stores, stealing 29 Apple watches

Three young men have been filmed stealing a number of Apple smart watches from stores in Sydney and Lake Macquarie.

Police said three men, aged between 15 and 20, took 12 smart watches from an Apple store at a Charlestown shopping centre at Lake Macquarie near Newcastle on September 18. Seventeen more were stolen from a different Apple store at Hornsby shopping centre on October 2 and it’s believed the trio was responsible for both instances.

However, investigators have been told all the stolen watches that the items are only display models with very limited functionality despite appearing identical.

“They are warning members of the public – who may be offered the watches for sale – to exercise caution and ensure they ask for proof-of-purchase before proceeding with a transaction, online or otherwise,” police said.

Three young men look at a table in a Sydney Apple store. They are also seen walking outside.
Police said these three young men stole about 29 Apple smart watches from stores in Sydney. Source: NSW Police

NSW Police has released CCTV on the trio in the hope of finding them.

Two are believed to be 18-20 years old while the third is believed to be 15-17. All are caucasian in appearance.

One of the two older men is said to be of medium build, and has a dark beard and moustache while the other is of medium build with short brown hair. The one believed to be the youngest is of a slim build, and with short dark hair.

All three were seen either wearing black hooded jumpers or jackets.

Anyone with information about these incidents is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the online reporting page.

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