HASTINGS businessman Ray Percival says he is “fed up” with the lawlessness overnight in Hastings after his shop was targeted by thieves for the third time in recent months.
The latest break-in occurred last Tuesday (14 April), with the assailants smashing the glass in the front door to gain access.
“Once inside, they caused a hell of a mess, using a walking stick to smash all the security cameras that were recording as it happened,” said Percival.
It is believed the footage has been handed to police.
“I am just so disappointed that these vandals are targeting a business whose objective is to help other people,” said Percival.
“It isn’t just what they steal, either. It is the pointless destruction that does along with it.”
Percival believes the recent losses from the three break-ins have amounted to around $25,000.
“It is obvious that it’s been done by young people that don’t have any care or feeling for the community,” said Percival.
“They are just such selfish people. They don’t care who they hurt.”
Percival believes his experiences are part of a larger problem in the town with rampant crime overnight with nobody seeming to be interested in preventing it.
“Every day you hear of a new business targeted the previous night,” said Percival.
“It is such a shame. It is a great town being ruined by a few bad apples.”
First published in the Western Port News – 22 April 2026
