Police are currently searching for multiple suspects following a failed ram-raid attempt on a tobacco store in Strathpine which occurred last night. The incident, which took place at Habibi’s Convenience and Tobacco Store on Gympie Road, has left one person injured and a stolen vehicle destroyed.
At approximately 10 PM on July 31, authorities were alerted to a white Nissan Navara dual-cab ute crashing into the bollards at the front of the recently opened shop. According to police reports, three individuals exited the vehicle and proceeded to set it on fire before assaulting a 26-year-old man from Warner who was in the vicinity.
The Queensland Fire Department responded swiftly, extinguishing the blaze by 10:25 PM. Their quick action prevented significant damage to the business, although minor fire and smoke damage was reported.
The Nissan Navara, which exploded into flames during the incident, was confirmed to have been stolen from an address in Booval between July 9 and 11. It was towed from the crime scene at around 11 AM today.
Eyewitness Teneale Wells, a Strathpine resident, described the scene: “As I got closer to it, I saw the engulfed car and a group of people were standing near the coffee shop. Then police arrived, and the fire truck came up behind me and a few minutes later another fire truck came from the other direction.”
The assault victim was transported to Prince Charles Hospital with minor facial injuries.
As of now, the suspects remain at large. Police have established a crime scene and are conducting ongoing investigations. They urge anyone with information related to the failed ram-raid in Strathpine to come forward and contact the authorities.
Published 1-August-2024
