Detectives have seized a vehicle as investigations continue into multiple alleged assaults and robberies in northern New South Wales.
Five men were hospitalised after they were allegedly assaulted and robbed in Ballina and Evans Head.
Each of the men told police they believed they were meeting someone they had spoken to on dating apps.
Richmond Police District crime manager Grant Erickson said police believed the assaults were linked.
Police yesterday released CCTV footage of a white ute as part as part of a state-wide appeal for assistance.
This resulted in police searching a property on the Pacific Highway at Broadwater.
They seized a white utility at the scene, which has been taken for forensic examination.
A toolbox was also seized and will also be examined.
Strike Force Temoin has been established to investigate the following allegations:
- October 31: A 58-year-old man was assaulted by two men at the Chinamans Beach car park in Evans Head. The man was dragged from his car and assaulted repeatedly. His vehicle was then stolen.
- November 5: A 77-year-old man was assaulted and knocked unconscious by four young people at the Evans Head skate park. His vehicle was stolen.
- November 6: A 27-year-old man was assaulted by four males at a park on Elms Street in Evans Head. He ran to a nearby medical centre to escape.
- November 12: Two separate incidents resulted in a 53-year-old man and a 50-year-old man being assaulted by a group of youths in Ballina. Each man had belongings stolen.
Police advice vigilance
Police patrols had increased in areas where the assaults took place, Detective Inspector Erickson said.
He said the strike force team also included members of the State Crime Command's Robbery and Serious Crime squad.
"We do not tolerate violence or anything in the community," Detective Inspector Erickson said.
"[People] should feel comfortable and safe not only to communicate online but to walk our streets.
"We understand the reporting of incidents such as these can be distressing and traumatic for the persons and the public but we just want people to be vigilant."
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
