A petrol station in Williamstown, Melbourne, has suffered significant sabotage after vandals targeted all fuel pump nozzles with expanding foam, inflicting damage estimated at around $15,000. CCTV footage captured the two hooded culprits swiftly and methodically applying the foam, indicating a premeditated act. They filmed themselves during the incident and attempted to conceal their identities by hiding behind the petrol bowser.
The staff discovered the damage hours later, leaving station manager James Ibrahim in disbelief. He expressed his disappointment, citing the station’s long-standing commitment to the local community over nearly two decades, including maintaining fair pricing amid competition. “It’s disheartening that this happened,” he said.
The petrol station was temporarily closed for approximately five hours while crews worked to clean or replace the affected nozzles. In response to the incident, Ibrahim has engaged the police and private investigators and called upon the community for assistance in identifying the perpetrators. He urged anyone with information or relevant CCTV footage to come forward, emphasising, “This is our home; we’re part of the community, and we’re not going anywhere.” Members of the public can report tips to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.