A Wollongong shopkeeper whose charity tin was raided has publicly shamed the “wanker” responsible.
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Security cameras were rolling as a man approached the Mobile Phone Hospital in Wollongong Central early Monday, minutes after a set of doors to the complex were opened.
Wearing a beanie, the man scans the area before reaching over the front counter and removing a tin full of coins intended for Camp Quality. He then produces a set of bolt cutters and, after spending some time cutting through the wire cord, walks away with the tin.
Staff used the store’s Facebook page to call out the thief.
“Sorry CAMP QUALITY but this wanker just stole the charity tin that our wonderful customers filled up. Very Sad,” they wrote, in a post accompanying security video of the theft.
“We will make it up to Camp Quality, matching the money raised up in the next tin, but in the meantime if you see this guy around please let us know.”
The matter has been reported to Wollongong Police.
Store technician James Wenzel believes the man entered the complex through a set of doors that are opened earlier than the rest of the complex, to allow access to a cafe that opens 7am.
The tin would have held almost $200, Mr Wenzel estimates.
“He's come in under the guise of getting a coffee and just walked in,” he said.
“It’s disgusting that someone would be able to steal from a charity like that.
“Especially when it’s going to children with cancer.”
Note: store staff say the security camera’s clock is inaccurate. It recorded the theft as having occurred an hour later than the true time, 6.54am.
Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000