FOUR boys – one aged 11 and three aged 13 – are in custody and a man is being treated in hospital for a cut to his forearm after an alleged attempted break-in on a home in Moree early Saturday.

One of the 13-year-olds was charged with breach of bail.

Officers attached to New England Police District have been told five boys were allegedly kicking the front door of a home on Boland Driver shortly before 3.20am on Saturday, when they were confronted by a 56-year-old man who lived there.

A fight developed during which the man was allegedly hit in the head with a rock then his left forearm slashed with a knife.

The boys left when a witness intervened.

Police were alerted and attended a property in Moree a short time later arresting three boys aged 13 and a fourth boy aged 11.

All were taken to Moree Police Station where they have been charged.

A 13-year-old boy has been charged with three offences: aggravated break-and-enter with intent – use violence; and enter enclosed land (not prescribed premises) without lawful excuse, and breach of bail.

A second 13-year-old boy has been charged with three offences: aggravated break-and-enter with intent – use violence; enter enclosed land (not prescribed premises) without lawful excuse; and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

A third 13-year-old boy has been charged with three offences: aggravated break and enter with intent – use violence; enter enclosed land (not prescribed premises) without lawful excuse; and reckless wounding – in company.

An 11-year-old boy has been charged with two offences: aggravated break and enter with intent – use violence and enter enclosed land (not prescribed premises) without lawful excuse.

All four have been refused bail to appear via AVL before Parramatta Children’s Court.

A fifth child is being sought by police.

The man was taken to Moree Base Hospital for treatment for the wound to his arm.

Inquiries are continuing under Operation Soteria.