Business owners in Ballina say they’re losing faith in the system after yet another round of break-ins hit local shops.

Last week Sunrise Cycles in Hogan Street was targeted, along with neighbouring businesses, with an expensive e-bike stolen. 

Despite having CCTV images of a suspect, police have appealed for public help. 

However those affected say that police already know who is responsible.

“Police already have a firm idea of who’s behind it,” one business owner said.

“The problem is getting charges to stick.  Even when there’s clear video evidence, magistrates have been known to dismiss cases on the basis that it might have been a brother or cousin. 

“It leaves you wondering about what it actually takes these days to get justice.”

Business Under Pressure

The latest incidents come as Ballina retailers report being hit harder than most.

After the 2022 floods, hundreds of displaced residents were relocated to the shire.  

Business owners say the flow-on effect has been a sharp rise in crime.

Figures from the Bureau of Crime Statistics show shoplifting in Ballina has surged 45.4 per cent in the past two years –  a higher rate of increase than any other local government area in NSW.

In the three months to June alone, police were called to 173 shoplifting offences, 255 cases of vandalism, 252 general thefts, 197 home burglaries and 60 non-residential break-ins. Officers also dealt with 158 domestic violence incidents and 168 assaults.

Police Appeal

Ballina and Byron police have released photos (main image above) of a man they believe may assist with their inquiries into the e-bike from Sunrise Cycles and another from the Suffolk Park shopping centre.

They are urging anyone who recognises him to contact local stations or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police say all information will be treated in the strictest confidence.