In short:
Two teens have been charged after a three-day armed robbery spree involving a stolen Mercedes. Police believe more offenders are still at large and are appealing for dashcam footage and CCTV.
Stolen Car Linked to Crime Spree
Two teenagers have been charged by detectives from the North West Metro Regional Crime Squad following a series of alleged armed robberies targeting businesses across Melbourne. Over the past three days, a reportedly stolen grey Mercedes Benz was used in 27 incidents, including armed robberies, burglaries, and thefts.
The vehicle was involved in crimes committed between 10pm on Tuesday 1 June and 3.30am on Wednesday 2 June in Werribee, Tarneit, Truganina, Laverton North, Williams Landing, Bentleigh East, and Nunawading. Further alleged incidents involving the same vehicle took place across Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs between 6pm and 2.30am yesterday. No physical injuries were reported during these incidents.
While on patrol in Pakenham around 6am today, officers spotted the Mercedes, which was allegedly stolen from Hoppers Crossing on 22 June. The vehicle was found parked on Olivia Court shortly after. Two teenagers were arrested nearby, while a third offender managed to escape on foot.
The arrested individuals, a 15-year-old boy and a 17-year-old boy both from the Greater Dandenong area, have been charged with seven counts of aggravated burglary, one count of attempted aggravated burglary, two counts of burglary, four counts of armed robbery, four counts of attempted armed robbery, one count of motor vehicle theft, four counts of theft, and one count of failing to stop on police direction. Both have been remanded to appear at a children’s court at a later date.
Police believe additional offenders are still at large and investigations are ongoing. Witnesses, anyone with dashcam footage or CCTV, or those with any information that could assist the police are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
