Police have busted an alleged syndicate responsible for dozens of commercial burglaries across Melbourne, stealing items worth up to $700,000.
The syndicate has allegedly committed 19 burglaries since July 29, targeting electronic stores across Melbourne.
Detectives allege that the group has been using stolen cars and trucks, concealed with cloned number plates, to load up stolen items.
Two offenders were arrested on Wednesday evening after they allegedly stole a Toyota RAV4 from a Mont Albert address in the early hours of the morning using a key reprogramming device.
“These arrests are a timely reminder for organised syndicates that while you might get away with large thefts in the moment, it won’t be long until police are knocking on your door,” Detective Senior Sergeant Haydn Beale said.
The vehicle was then allegedly used to steal items from an electronics store on Maroondah Highway, Chirnside Park.
The RAV4 was later tracked to a Bundoora address, when the driver allegedly collided with an unmarked police vehicle before being arrested.
Another man inside the property was also arrested.
Searches of the vehicle uncovered approximately 80 items believed to be allegedly stolen from the electronic store earlier that day, as well as $5,000 in cash.
A 36-year-old Whittlesea man was charged with twelve counts of burglary, three counts of attempted burglary, three counts of theft of motor vehicle, deal with proceeds in crime, false imprisonment, threat to inflict serious injury, reckless conduct endanger serious injury, aggravated intentional exposure of a police officer to risk by driving a stolen car, damage to emergency service vehicle by reckless driving.
A 32-year-old Bundoora man was charged with seven counts of burglary, three counts of attempted burglary, three counts of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of methyl amphetamine, possession of cocaine, possession of prescription drugs and possession of explosive substances.
“We have a specialised team of detectives who are working hard day and night to hold these offenders to account,” Detective Senior Sergeant Haydn Beale said.
The 36-year-old Whittlesea man was remanded in custody, and the 32-year-old Bundoora man was bailed with both to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on November 13.
Detectives continue investigating.
Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
