Police hunt car thieves after leaving out-of-work hospitality worker gutted

Police continue to hunt for a duo after a car was stolen from outside a home in Kensington and used in a petrol drive-off in September.

Investigators have been told a white coloured Honda Civic hatchback was parked near the corner of Bateman Rd and The Crescent in Kensington on September 19.

Police allege two people, one of whom is believed to be a male, attended the street and used a second car to push-start the Honda before stealing it about 7.15am. 

“It’s believed the stolen Honda was driven to a Rockbank petrol station where the driver stole a quantity of fuel on September 21,” a police spokeswoman said.

“The stolen vehicle was located burnt out in Melton on September 23.”

Police have now appealed to the public for information after releasing a CCTV image of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquires.

The victim of the car theft, who told North West City News of his frustration and shock over the incident in October, said he had given a statement to police and hoped the CCTV images would lead to an arrest.

“Surely when they stole fuel they would have a lot of footage of these guys,” Will, who did not wish to use his surname, said.

“I hope that maybe they get caught,” he said, but added, “I don’t expect I’m going to get anything out of this.”

“I’ve accepted it’s gone and if there is something [as a result of the investigation] I would be pleasantly surprised.”

“Once I heard it had been burnt-out, I just assumed they’re not going to be able to be able to do anything for me.”

Will, who works in hospitality, said he had lost shifts for most of this year due to repeated lockdowns and the theft of his car, worth $5000, had been a double blow.

The 30-year-old said his savings had quickly evaporated and had recently taken on a second job with Australia Post to make ends meet.

However, his ordeal also resulted in his job application being delayed after he received a speeding fine in the days after his car was stolen – which he had withdrawn but it was another headache he didn’t need.

“This year has been particularly tough. It’s frustrating but there’s not much that you can do about it.”

The theft of his Honda was captured on CCTV by a neighbour, which appeared to show the thieves dressed in black and one smoking a cigarette.

Will said he was asleep at the time and didn’t hear anything, adding his car was locked and had a flat battery.

Police said they were looking for two people in relation to the theft of the vehicle.
One of the offenders is described as male, Caucasian, about 180cm tall with black hair, and wearing a black jumper and black pants.
There is no description of the second offender •

Anyone with information or who recognises the man is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.