Dog stolen in violent Canberra robbery still missing, alleged attacker refused
A dog stolen during an August robbery in Canberra is still missing; the alleged attacker was refused bail on Friday.
A man was walking in Belconnen on 30 August when he was punched and kicked in the head and his dog was stolen. Police alleged Ahmad Bashar Al Araja, 26, got out of a white Land Rover and assaulted the owner with another man.
Al Araja was arrested the next day. On Friday, he applied for bail but the court refused it.
The magistrate said the alleged robbery involved significant violence and found no special circumstances to release him. The stolen dog is a Staffordshire bull terrier with a dark brindle coat, black muzzle, white chest, and white speckled front legs.
Police have made no progress in finding it despite extensive searches.
- 30 August, around 12:30 pm
- Date and time
- Belconnen, Canberra
- Location
Why it mattersA violent robbery left both victim and pet in danger, and weeks later the stolen dog remains missing while the alleged offender stays in custody.
AustraliaACT residents are being urged to help police find the missing dog; anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
