Investigators have linked a string of nine burglaries and attempted burglaries, targeting various businesses across the state, occurring between last November and this month. Police believe these incidents are part of a coordinated operation.
Authorities report that stolen tow trucks were instrumental in these break-ins, particularly targeting businesses with ATMs mounted on exterior walls. The calculated heists have resulted in over $1 million in damages.
The criminal activities focused on a diverse range of businesses, including restaurants, newsagencies, a grocery store, and more, leaving a wide path of disruption in their wake.
In the course of these robberies, four ATMs were successfully stolen from businesses located in Fairfield, Bentleigh East, Baxter, and Yinnar.
While the investigation remains active, police have already made progress by apprehending two suspects involved in the alleged crimes.
Among those arrested is a 34-year-old man from Drouin, detained last Friday. He faces 11 charges, including burglary and criminal damage, as the authorities continue to unravel the full extent of this criminal network.
He was remanded to appear before court on April 7.
A 31-year-old Dandenong man was arrested on Monday and charged with multiple offences, including burglary, vehicle theft, and criminal damage.
He was also remanded to appear in court on February 4.
Police have also seized seven allegedly stolen tow trucks, five of which investigators claim were left behind at scenes of the raids.
The investigation is ongoing and further arrests are expected.
