Operation Vista leads to multiple arrests, recovery of stolen vehicles, and highlights ongoing efforts to curb car crime in Wyndham.
A targeted police operation in Wyndham has led to the arrest of nearly 20 individuals and the recovery of four stolen vehicles, according to local authorities.
The operation, named “Operation Vista,” was carried out by the Westgate Divisional Response Unit over several nights. Officers focused on identifying stolen vehicles and apprehending individuals with outstanding warrants. The operation involved a heightened police presence on the roads, with officers scanning vehicles for signs of theft.
Among those arrested were four 16-year-old boys involved in a dramatic incident last Monday in Truganina. The teenagers allegedly fled from a stolen BMW after it crashed into a police vehicle at a roundabout. The collision occurred around 9:20 p.m. as the BMW, reportedly traveling on the wrong side of the road, struck the police car. The boys were later located and apprehended by the Air Wing, found hiding on the roof of a nearby property.
In a separate incident, police arrested a 35-year-old man in Tarneit after spotting a motorbike with stolen number plates. The man led officers to an address in Hoppers Crossing, where the motorbike, later confirmed to be stolen, was recovered. The man now faces charges of motor vehicle theft and fraudulent use of a registration label.
Two nights after that, a 30-year-old man was taken into custody in Werribee after police discovered a stolen Toyota sedan parked outside a local hotel. The man has been charged with motor vehicle theft, possession of a controlled weapon on licensed premises, and handling stolen goods. A 41-year-old woman was also arrested in connection with the incident but was released pending further investigation.
Throughout Operation Vista, officers conducted checks on over 250 vehicles and executed 12 outstanding warrants. This included the arrest of two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, wanted for robbery and aggravated burglary. The pair was apprehended after being found in the back of a rideshare vehicle in Point Cook.
Detective Acting Sergeant Thomas Scott of the Westgate Divisional Response Unit highlighted the operation’s success in addressing vehicle theft in Wyndham. “Every week, we’re making arrests and recovering stolen vehicles,” he said. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and ensure their vehicles are securely locked, even when parked in a safe location.
“The message is clear,” added Detective Scott, “If you’re driving a stolen vehicle in Wyndham, expect to be caught.”
Operation Vista was conducted in the Wyndham area from August 5th to 8th.
