Police have smashed an alleged shoplifting syndicate in Melbourne, arresting 19 people accused of stealing millions of dollars’ worth of goods.

Detectives say the group targeted major supermarket retailers in the city metropolitan district, stealing more than $10 million worth of high-demand items over the past five months.

They include baby formula, medicines, vitamins, skincare products, electric toothbrushes and toiletries.

Police say the alleged offenders, mostly Indian nationals on temporary visas, were part of a coordinated network funnelling stolen goods to sellers.

Among those arrested were six men and a woman aged between 21 and 54. They are accused of individual thefts, ranging in value from $25,000 to $136,000.

They are next due in court over coming months.

Police say the accused were part of a wider criminal network.

“This has been one of the most significant operations we’ve undertaken in recent times to target organised retail theft,” said Detective Acting Inspector Rachele Ciavarella.

“We will allege this syndicate are not only stealing for themselves, but they are part of a coordinated criminal enterprise profiting from stolen goods. 

“By working with major retailers, we’ve been able to identify alleged offenders quickly and build a strong intelligence picture, allowing us to target the right people at the right time.

“Our message is simple: if you target our retail sector, we will target you.”