A Balgowlah break-in at Porters Liquor on Sydney Road was among a series of overnight incidents across the Northern Beaches, with businesses in Balgowlah and Warriewood continuing to trade as police inquiries remained ongoing.
Balgowlah Break-In Part of Overnight Spree
Porters Liquor was broken into at about 2am on Tuesday, 1 September 2026. Its front security door was forced open, and 17 bottles of vodka were taken during an incident that lasted only a few minutes.
Police investigating the scene said the two suspects left in a vehicle stolen from Forestville. Police also said the same pair had been seen at between five and seven stores during the overnight series.
The Balgowlah business was left with damage to its entrance and had to arrange repairs while continuing to operate.
Warriewood Businesses Hit Soon After
At about 2:30am, a similar-looking pair arrived on Garden Street in Warriewood, where Liquor IGA and neighbouring cafe Eleven11 were also broken into.
A brick was used to damage the entrances. At Eleven11, the register was removed from the wall, while the point-of-sale system and glass frontage were also damaged. At Liquor IGA, about eight bottles of vodka were taken.
Detectives and forensic officers attended the known Balgowlah and Warriewood scenes as the investigation continued.
Shops Stay Open After Break-Ins
Porters Liquor, Warriewood IGA and Eleven11 remained open following the incidents despite the damage and repair work.
Staff at the Warriewood businesses also reported support from customers after the break-ins. The response came as the affected shops dealt with damage, repairs and losses from the overnight incidents.
NSW Police Break-In Safety Advice
NSW Police break-and-enter prevention guidance advises keeping doors and windows locked, using appropriate locks and considering measures such as protective glass film, alarms and CCTV. Police also recommend ensuring CCTV footage can be clearly recorded, reviewed and copied when needed.
Anyone who discovers a break-in is advised to avoid touching damaged locks or other items that may contain fingerprints or DNA until police have assessed the scene. Details of stolen property or vehicles, including identifying information, should also be gathered for police.
The Northern Beaches investigation remained ongoing. Anyone with information that may assist police, including relevant dashcam footage from the area at the time, was urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Published 5-September-2026
