Detectives from the Eastern Region Crime Squad are investigating two separate crime sprees across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs over the weekend, involving multiple offenders targeting service stations and businesses.
In the first series of incidents, police responded to six robberies in the city’s south-east, all involving a group of males and a red Honda Civic, which has since been recovered.
The offences occurred between 6.50pm and 9.30pm on Saturday, 15th of February, at service stations in Balwyn, Bulleen, Blackburn South, Murrumbeena, Moorabbin, and Braeside. In each case, offenders stole cash and cigarettes, with one incident in Braeside resulting in two staff members being assaulted.
Detectives believe these six incidents are connected.
Meanwhile on the same night, a separate group targeted businesses in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. Between 8.15pm and 8.56pm, service stations and a supermarket in Scoresby, Heathmont, Mitcham, and Templestowe Lower were hit. Offenders stole cash and cigarettes and, in some cases, assaulted staff members.
Police believe these four incidents are linked.
Authorities are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incidents, has CCTV or dashcam footage, or any information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
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