A couple in Australia are facing an additional blow following a traumatic home invasion — a hefty traffic fine of AU$6,258 (approximately RM19,800) issued after one of the suspects who stole their vehicle was caught on camera not wearing a seatbelt.
The couple, who live in Gold Coast, said they have until 3 March to settle the penalty, despite insisting they were not the ones behind the wheel at the time of the offence.
Home Broken Into While Family Slept
The incident unfolded in the middle of the night while the family were asleep. The husband, identified only as Hamid, said he was jolted awake by noises inside the house.
Upon investigating, he discovered intruders rummaging through their belongings. Although he leapt out of bed in an attempt to chase them away, the suspects had already grabbed the car keys along with several household items, including a vacuum cleaner, a gym bag and shoes.
Hamid immediately contacted the police to lodge a report. However, in a brazen twist, the suspects reportedly returned shortly after and drove off with the family car.
“Obviously, the family were very affected, just crying, and that’s when they came back,” he said in an interview. “They came back with no fear and just took the car.”
The incident has left the household shaken, highlighting how victims of crime often endure prolonged emotional distress long after the initial break-in.
Fine Issued Despite Ongoing Investigation
According to reports, Queensland police have yet to investigate the break-in, even though more than three weeks have passed since the crime occurred.
Nevertheless, the transport authority had no difficulty issuing an infringement notice after traffic cameras captured one of the thieves driving the stolen vehicle without wearing a seatbelt.
Hamid questioned how authorities were able to identify the vehicle for the purpose of issuing a fine, yet seemingly unable to track down the suspects responsible for both the theft and the traffic offence.
The case has sparked broader questions about enforcement priorities, particularly when victims of crime find themselves penalised for offences committed by those who wronged them.
