Five people will face court as an additional 27 people were infringed during Operation Rapina targeting anti-social and criminal behaviour in the Lismore and Goonellabah areas, including the CBD.

In recent months, officers attached to Richmond Police District increased high-visibility patrols in areas including local shopping centres, public spaces, and public transport hubs to enhance community safety.

On Tuesday and Wednesday this week (27 and 28 May 2025), uniformed and plain-clothes police held a joint operation with Loss Prevention Officers and Compliance Officers from the local council to detect and disrupt crime in the Lismore and Goonellabah areas.

As a result of the operation:

• A total of five people were charged for alleged shoplifting and drug offences,
• 27 criminal infringement notices were issued for shoplifting,
• 77 persons were scanned with hand-held devices under knife scanning powers,
• three youth cautions were conducted for shoplifting offences,
• 18 move-on directions were issued.

Incidents of note include:

• About 1pm on Tuesday, 27 May 2025, police were alerted by Loss Prevention Officers of a woman allegedly shoplifting at a supermarket in Lismore. Following inquiries, police will allege that the woman paid for several items; however, had left with more than $720 of unpaid items. Officers issued the 67-year-old woman with a Court Attendance Notice for shoplifting. She will appear before Lismore Local Court on Monday, 14 July 2025.
• About 12.40pm on Tuesday, 27 May 2025, police were patrolling an automotive shop at Lismore when they stopped and spoke with a 47-year-old man outside the shop. Following inquiries, police allegedly located a stolen bottle of engine cleaner worth $37.99 on the man. He was issued an infringement notice for shoplifting and was moved on from the location.

Richmond Police District Crime Manager, Detective Acting Inspector Steve Hoffman, said these operations will continue to ensure the safety of the community.

"This operation underscores our dedication to maintaining a visible presence in the community, disrupting criminal activities, and ensuring offenders are held accountable.

"Police actively investigate reports of theft and disruptive behaviour using CCTV and other methods. Those who commit crimes are likely to be identified and face prosecution.

"Ensuring the safety of our community is our top priority. We are dedicated to creating a secure environment where residents can feel safe and protected in their daily lives."

Similar operations will continue across the Richmond Police District.