Four teenagers have been apprehended in connection with a series of aggravated robberies and vehicle thefts in the north-western suburbs of Melbourne. According to police reports, the group allegedly broke into a residence on Inkerman Street in Maidstone around 1 AM on August 15, entering through an unlocked window. They reportedly made off with a Mitsubishi Triton utility vehicle and the keys to a Mazda 3 sedan.
Shortly thereafter, at approximately 1:15 AM, they are said to have entered another home on Pridham Street in Maribyrnong through an unlocked door, where they stole a Volkswagen Tiguan, keys to a Mazda, two watches, and a wallet. It is alleged that the group then used stolen credit cards to purchase drinks and petrol at a service station on Ballarat Road in Deer Park.
Continuing their spree, the suspects allegedly returned to a residence on Pridham Street, accessing the property through an unlocked window. They reportedly stole a lockbox containing keys, a bag with $2000 in cash, and a Honda ZRV.
The owner of one of the vehicles tracked their stolen car to Inkerman Street in Maidstone, prompting a call to Victoria Police. Officers subsequently discovered the Volkswagen, Honda ZRV, and a Holden GTS, which police claim was stolen from a home in Wyndham Vale two days earlier.
An 18-year-old from Maidstone was arrested while seated in the passenger seat of the Honda. He faces multiple charges, including aggravated burglary and drug possession, and has been remanded in custody. Another 18-year-old from Western Australia allegedly fled the scene on foot to Delacey Street, where he tried to steal another vehicle but was apprehended with the help of that car’s owner. He has been charged similarly to the first suspect.
Additionally, two more teenagers—one 18 years old from Lara and another 19-year-old from Wyndham Vale—were arrested inside the Inkerman Street residence. They have since been released pending further investigations.
The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding youth crime and safety in suburban areas, drawing attention to the need for increased vigilance and security measures among residents.