Police from Westgate Highway Patrol yesterday arrested three teens and seized a number of dirt bikes following a dangerous riding incident in Truganina two months ago.
Following an extensive investigation and public appeal last month, officers executed five search warrants at addresses in Hoppers Crossing, Tarneit and Williamstown on Tuesday 19 September.
Three boys, all aged 15, were arrested and subsequently charged with a range of traffic offences including:
• Reckless conduct endangering serious injury
• Drive manner dangerous
• Careless driving
• Unlicenced driving
• Unregistered motor vehicle
• Improper use of a motor vehicle
• Use a vehicle not safe / roadworthy
• Disobey red traffic lights
The trio were bailed to appear before a children’s court at a later date.
Investigators also seized three dirt bikes and will apply for forfeiture at court.
The arrests follow an incident on Sayers Road in Truganina on 29 July where about 15 people allegedly rode dangerously in front of a police vehicle.
At the time, police arrested one individual and during the arrest, the group of riders allegedly came back and circled police, riding on the wrong side of the road, while spraying dirt and rocks on both officers and the police vehicle.
Two dirt bikes were impounded on the day.
Police will continue to investigate the incident with further arrests in sight.
Anyone with information about illegal dirt bike riding is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
If illegal or dangerous dirt bike riding is happening at the time, contact Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Quotes attributable to Westgate Police Division Inspector Jennifer Horgan:
“Westgate Highway Patrol is relentless in tracking down those who think they can endanger our roads and get away with it.
“I’m urging parents to have a conversation with their children around the safe use of bikes as riding them on our streets and through parks illegally is not OK.
“You might think it’s harmless fun but one day it could end in tragedy.”
