A 25-year-old Merimbula man was assaulted by three other men in a laneway near McDonald’s, off Market Street.

It was described as cowardly attack.

The victim was taken for treatment to Bega hospital suffering multiple lacerations. He was later released in a satisfactory condition.

Police have asked for any witnesses to contact them on 6495 1366.

A number of incidents involving break, entry and squatting in local holiday homes and apartments is being investigated by Merimbula police.

Sergeant Cliff Scarlett said it’s believed that a group of males have been involved. He said they had been camping and cooking in the properties for several days before moving on.

The properties used for squats are in the Short Point and the Boardwalk Top Lake area. Sgt Scarlett said members of the public aware of any unusual behaviour, or unexpected visitors to unoccupied properties, should not approach the intruders but instead notify police.

A Merimbula man was involved in an incident at Woolworths in Main Street at 9am last Wednesday.

Police were called after complaints of theft and offensive language.

The 22-year-old Merimbula man was arrested and charged over the allegations and will appear in court in Bega next month.

A 71-year-old Merim-bula man was arrested during a random breath test at 2.30pm last Friday.

He tested positive for a low-range blood alcohol reading of .077 and will appear in Bega court next month.