Two Men Were Arrested in Connection to the Violent Morwell Incidents
Detectives from Taskforce Lunar have laid charges against two individuals in connection with an alleged extortion and aggravated burglary that took place in Morwell last month. The accused, an 18-year-old man from Hoppers Crossing and a 17-year-old boy from Hillside, were targeted following two incidents at a Morwell tobacco store on November 24 and 25.
The first incident occurred when two males visited the Tarwin Avenue store, threatening the owner to shut down the business within 24 hours. Less than a day later, one of the males returned with a companion, violently assaulting two female staff members. The attackers stole several sets of car keys before fleeing on foot.
Warrants were executed at residential addresses in Hoppers Crossing and Hillside shortly after 9 am, leading to the arrest of the 18-year-old Hoppers Crossing man, charged with aggravated burglary, theft, and assault-related offences. The 17-year-old Hillside boy faces charges of aggravated burglary, extortion, theft, and assault. They are scheduled to appear in court today.
The charges are part of an ongoing investigation into organized crime syndicates linked to illicit tobacco. In connection with this, seven warrants were executed in the Latrobe Valley area, targeting five tobacco stores and other locations.
Since the inception of Taskforce Lunar in October, over 70 search warrants have been executed, resulting in 20 arrests and the seizure of illicit tobacco, e-cigarettes, and cocaine. The investigation continues, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.
Detective Inspector Graham Banks, Taskforce Lunar, emphasized the severity of the incidents, stating, “This was an unprovoked and violent assault of two women as a young child watched on.” He warned against purchasing illicit tobacco, emphasizing its direct connection to funding organized crime groups involved in such violent activities.
The operation underscores Taskforce Lunar’s commitment to targeting organized criminal activities related to illicit tobacco throughout the state, with a strong presence in regional Victoria. Authorities encourage those with information to contact Crime Stoppers to contribute to the ongoing investigation.
