A group of “brave” bystanders has been praised for stepping in to stop two teenagers from allegedly shoplifting multiple bottles of alcohol from a Dan Murphy’s store in NSW.
Footage circulating on social media shows the moment customers and staff worked together to block the alleged would-be thieves from leaving the liquor store in Tuggerah on the state’s Central Coast.
In the footage, the two youths – carrying bags and dressed in all black clothing with hoods over the heads – can be seen trying to pass through the entrance of the store with their hands full of bottles and cases of alcohol as an alarm sounds in the background.
“F***ing put it back now,” a bystander tells the teens as one passes through the store’s entrance gates.
“Put them back now,” he repeats, blocking the teen from leaving.
Others can also been seen approaching the entrance to prevent the pair from fleeing.
“I don’t give a f*** bro, put them back,” the man continues.
Conceding, the teens turns around and carry the alcohol back into the store.
Two people could be seen taking boxes of drinks out of the teenagers’ hands as they returned the drinks to the shelves, escorted by a staff member.
After returning the products, the duo split and walked out of the store separately while attempting to cover their faces.
“Too late boys you’re already on video,” one person yells out.
On the way out, a man could be seen approaching one of the teens and speaking to him briefly before the video cut off.
News.com.au understands the incident has been referred to NSW Police for investigation.
Many online applauded the bystanders for intervening and calming de-escalating the situation without resorting to violence.
“Bloody love Aussies! Maybe we need more of this – people who join together and say nope, not on our watch, one person wrote on social media.
“Thank you to the brave locals,” said another.
“Awesome. That’s all it takes. People standing up and saying No not today sunshine,” another wrote.
“That’s all it takes people. Well done,” another praised, while a fifth wrote: “Power to the people”.
News.com.au has contacted NSW Police for comment.
