Two men arrested over an axe-wielding break-in at Lismore Square Shopping Centre are now the focus of broader police investigations into a string of recent robberies across the Northern Rivers.

The pair, aged 22 and 28, were taken into custody yesterday at a caravan park in Byron Bay, just hours after an alleged aggravated break and enter in Lismore.  Several shops were targeted, with cash, jewellery, and watches reported stolen.

A search warrant executed at their cabin allegedly uncovered stolen goods police say are linked to property offences in Lismore, Ballina, and Byron Bay. Investigations into those incidents remain ongoing.

Police say the 28 year-old already has already been charged in relation to a Ballina break-in last Sunday, while investigations are continuing into possible other cases.

One Ballina incident occurred on June 15, when Captain Snooze on Kerr Street and three food court businesses at Ballina Fair Shopping Centre were broken into.

The method used in those burglaries bore similarities to the Lismore Square case, although police have not confirmed whether recovered items are connected at this stage.

The 22-year-old has been charged with three counts of aggravated break and enter in company to steal.

The 28-year-old faces nine charges, including aggravated break and enter, larceny, attempted break and enter, and was also arrested on an outstanding warrant for traffic and bail offences.

Both men were refused bail when they appeared before Parramatta Local Court via video link earlier today.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au.