Police are investigating the discovery of a substantial amount of cash that washed up on Kendalls Beach in Kiama, located on New South Wales’ south coast. Around 1:20 PM on March 20, local residents were taken aback when they noticed a bag of cash and banknotes floating in the surf.
Authorities confirmed that they received reports about the unusual find and sent officers to the scene to speak with a local woman present at the beach. Anna Tydd, a regular beachgoer, remarked on the heightened activity in the water, with many swimmers appearing keen to seize the opportunity. Her friend Ian emerged with a pair of goggles, exclaiming the swimmers were diving for money.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing $100 bills scattered throughout the water, with one swimmer surfacing with a rolled bundle of cash estimated to be around $1,000. Despite the excitement, there was speculation among locals regarding the origin of the money. Some questioned whether the cash could be linked to illicit activities or if it might be counterfeit. Tydd promptly reported the incident to the police, who confirmed that an investigation has been launched.
It’s important to note that under NSW law, retaining money found without making efforts to locate its rightful owner could lead to charges of theft or larceny. There exists a misconception of a “finders keepers” rule; however, individuals are obliged to make reasonable attempts to find the owner or to hand the money over to law enforcement.
Authorities are urging anyone with further information regarding this incident to reach out, either to the Lake Illawarra Police Station or via Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. The situation has raised considerable intrigue among the community, highlighting the fine line between fortune and misfortune when it comes to unexpected finds at the beach.