Morawa Police investigate stolen defibrillator from Sporting and Recreational Centre tennis courts

Morawa Police are investigating the “thoughtless theft” of a defibrillator from the town’s recreational centre that went missing from the local tennis courts more than a week ago.

Morawa Police Sgt Nathan Smith said between January 12 and 16, an unknown suspect has stolen a potentially lifesaving defibrillator donated by St John WA from the tennis courts inside the Morawa Community Centre.

Sgt Smith said enquires were ongoing and police were working with the Shire and local families to narrow down a day and time of the theft.

“We’re really disappointed from our point of view. If someone did need lifesaving treatment without knowing it had been taken, it could have been life-threatening,” he said.

Morawa Shire president Karen Chappel said the defibrillator had been recovered since the incident and was a crucial device to have nearby for those playing sport in the summer heat.

“It’s very disappointing that the significance of an emergency device isn’t respected by those seeking five minutes of fun,” she said.

“When there’s 40 people playing tennis in 40C heat it’s crucial to have a device as such.”

It’s understood the defibrillator was not damaged.

Morawa Police ask anyone with information to contact police and quote reference 190123 1500 14488.