Rural
Thieves target cafe in weekend crime spree

Thieves have targeted local business, Cafe Ruze, in a crime spree that saw other homes and businesses targeted over the weekend.

Rhonda Amos, who has owned Cafe Ruze since May 2023, was shocked on Monday morning when her daughter and cafe manager, Anita Barrett, arrived at work to find a window smashed and money taken.

"Anita called me and told me what happened on Monday morning," Rhonda said.

"I was in disbelief.

"We feel blessed no one was hurt and no other damage was done to us or other businesses in the arcade.

"Sadly, drugs are making it worse in rural communities too and until we deal with that then this type of thing will continue unabated. We are hopeful video footage will help us identify those responsible."

Daughter Anita agreed and said that it was symptomatic of what has been happening in small towns throughout regional Australia.

"It is the first time we have had a break-in and the first I know of in the cafe's 15 year history," she said.

"We were extremely lucky that's all that happened as this thing is becoming more common," Anita said.

Despite the damage, the cafe reopened on Tuesday for business. Police are continuing with their enquiries and ask anyone with information to contact Cowra Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.