A man has been charged after a four-month investigation into a Fyshwick service station burglary involving the theft of thousands of dollars worth of tobacco products.
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ACT Policing said the 25-year-old Ainslie man was arrested and charged with theft and burglary today following a police investigation into a burglary at a Hungry Jacks/Coles Express service station on June 16.
Police said they would allege the man used his first-hand knowledge of the premises' security procedures and alarm activation to steal thousands of dollars worth of tobacco products.
He allegedly simulated a false alarm activation and waited inside while police and security staff responded and conducted a perimeter check. After police had left around 9.35pm, the offender allegedly stole the items and escaped the premises by breaking a window.
In mid-July and August, the man allegedly approached several people and offered them cartons of cigarettes at discount prices.
ACT Policing Crime Manager Detective Sergeant Bob Wynn said this case was an example of how police persistence through a lengthy investigation and the influx of fresh evidence could yield a positive result.
"In this case, when fresh evidence came to light and witnesses were able to strengthen our case, we were able to progress the investigation to make an arrest," he said.
The man is due to appear before the ACT Magistrates Court at a later date.