Three charged over alleged 'inside job' of bowling club robbery

A robbery occurred at a bowling club in Newcastle, New South Wales, with police alleging it was an inside job, leading to charges against three individuals in connection with the incident. The incident took place around 5:00 AM on Monday, December 30th of last year, when police received a report of a robbery at the bowling club located on Boreus Road in Hamilton North.

According to police investigations, two men, reportedly carrying knives and wearing black clothing, entered the club at approximately 4:00 AM. They allegedly assaulted a staff member and stole cash and electronic devices. A 44-year-old club employee received treatment from paramedics at the scene before being transported to a hospital for further care.

Following an investigation, police executed four search warrants on Wednesday morning around 8:20 AM in Cooks Hill, Beresfield, and Muswellbrook. At a residence in Cooks Hill, police arrested a 50-year-old man and charged him with stealing property as an employee. The man was refused bail and appeared in court yesterday.

In Muswellbrook, police arrested a 47-year-old man and charged him with theft and drug possession. This man was also denied bail and appeared in court on Wednesday. Around 12:00 PM yesterday, police arrested a 44-year-old man at the Newcastle Police Station, charging him with stealing property as an employee, participating in a criminal group, and making false statements. This man has been granted bail and is scheduled to appear in court on March 6th.

Police allege that the 44-year-old and 50-year-old men were employees of the club and conspired with the 47-year-old man to plan the armed robbery. They claim the two employees were aware that cash would be present at the club following a poker tournament. The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 to provide tips.