A utility was stolen from a residence approximately 200 metres from Murrumburrah High School at approximately 5:10am this morning.

The owner of the residence heard noises after the vehicle hit the bin out the front of the property whilst the theft was occuring.

It is alleged that several men stole the ute  and that the home owner gave chase in another vehicle. Another two men arrived at the scene shortly after on foot, after hiding near a home near Smith Street.

The two men who were fully dressed in black including one in a long black jacket and the other wearing a black hoodie and backpack. One of the men then intimidated the other residents at the home, before they were interrupted by the resident’s family members, who arrived on the scene by car to check on the welfare of their relations. The two men who arrived on foot had a dark complexion to their skin.

What is most concerning is that the assailants may have structured the theft to remove the male from the premises so that they could then turn their attention to the house and the remaining occupants.

The vehicle was later found dumped near the Ambulance Station in Murrumburrah close to the golf course.

Police took half an hour to respond to the crime, highlighting that response times are often slow in the twin towns, something that has been a problem for years. It is hoped that Police in neighbouring towns will increase their monitoring of the town until the assailants are apprehended.

If you have any information contact crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.