Commercial burglary syndicate responsible for $700K in thefts dismantled

Police have busted an alleged syndicate responsible for dozens of commercial burglaries across Melbourne, stealing up to $700,000 worth of items.

The syndicate has allegedly committed 19 burglaries since 29 July, targeting electronic stores across Melbourne.

It’s alleged the group has been using stolen cars and trucks concealed with cloned numberplates 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.

The vehicle was then allegedly used to steal items from an electronic store on Maroondah Highway in 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 motor vehicle, possess methyl amphetamine, possess cocaine, possess prescription drugs and possess explosive substances.

The 36-year-old Whittlesea man was remanded in custody to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on 13 November.

The 32-year-old Bundoora man was remanded overnight before being bailed to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on 13 November.

Detectives are continuing to investigate.

Anyone with information about criminal syndicates is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Quotes attributable to North West Metro Regional Crime Squad Detective Senior Sergeant Haydn Beale:

“Organised criminal syndicates are purely profit driven, with no regard for the frustration or cost they cause to their victims.

“We have a specialised team of detectives who are working hard day and night to hold these offenders to account.

“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.”

Media Unit

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