Masked intruders on the run after Riverina crime spree

A GROUP of masked intruders wanted over a string of early-morning break-ins across the Riverina remain on the run after allegedly leading police on a pursuit in a stolen car, before dumping the vehicle in another town and fleeing.

The alleged crime spree unfolded in Leeton during the early hours of Monday, September 14.

Police say they were called to multiple properties across at least five streets between 1.30am and 3.20am, after a group of young people wearing dark clothing and face coverings were seen entering properties.

At least one member of the group is believed to have been armed.

A motorbike allegedly stolen from an address on Carrington Drive was later found dumped a short distance away.

The night’s events escalated about 3.50am when investigating officers attempted to stop an SUV on Malee Street.

A NSW Police spokesperson said officers initiated a pursuit after the driver allegedly refused to stop.

“The pursuit continued through the Leeton township until police lost sight of the vehicle on Maiden Avenue,” the spokesperson said.

The SUV was found abandoned almost 60 kilometres away in Griffith about 5am.

It was seized for forensic examination.

Further inquiries revealed the SUV had allegedly been stolen several days earlier from McKay Avenue at Yoogali, sometime between 8pm on Thursday, September 10 and 9am on Friday, September 11.

Police have launched an investigation into the incidents and are appealing for information that could help identify those involved.

The group is described as being aged in their late teens or early 20s and wearing dark clothing and face coverings.

Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or has CCTV or dashcam footage from the affected areas is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.