MOUNT MARTHA, VIC. — Detectives from Taskforce Hawk have today arrested two people as part of an investigation into a series of alleged financial offences.
Police executed warrants at two residential addresses in Mount Martha and the Melbourne CBD this morning.
A 70-year-old man, believed to be a colourful underworld identity and debt collector, Mick Gatto, and a 72-year-old woman, understood to be Mr Gatto’s wife, were both arrested at the Mount Martha address and interviewed by police.
ABC News has confirmed it was Mick Gatto who was arrested. They have not confirmed whether the female arrested is – or is not – his wife.
Both have been released pending further enquiries.
Police also seized several items, including electronic devices, and two controlled weapons, including a baton and knife.
The investigation, which commenced earlier this year, remains ongoing.
Operation Hawk was established in July 2024 to specifically target criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry and transitioned to Taskforce Hawk in June 2025.
This was in response to several fresh allegations of serious and violent criminal behaviour.
Taskforce Hawk is focused on assessing new intelligence and evidence relating to allegations of criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry.
It also continues to proactively target organised crime associated with the sector, including a focus on any individuals employed within the construction industry who have known links to outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Police are also instigating approaches with relevant industry stakeholders to gather intelligence, as well as working closely with a range of law enforcement partners, regulators and government authorities.
Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
