Gang Crime Squad detectives charged three males yesterday evening following an aggravated home invasion in Tarneit earlier in the day.
Two search warrants were executed at residential addresses in Harkness yesterday evening.
An 18-year-old East Melbourne man was charged with aggravated home invasion.
He was remanded and will front Melbourne Magistrates’ Court today.
Two other males, a 17-year-old from Albion and a 16-year-old from Harkness were also charged with aggravated home invasion.
Both will appear at a children’s court at a later date.
Yesterday’s activity follows an alleged aggravated home invasion in Tarneit shortly after 4am on Wednesday, 30 November.
Police have been told three males forced entry into the house, before ransacking the property.
They were interrupted by two residents – a 37-year-old woman and an 18-year-old man – who were subsequently stabbed.
Both were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Police believe the incident was targeted and will allege the incident is a result of escalating tensions between male youths associated with two rival gangs.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Quotes attributable to Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Craig Mitchell, Echo Taskforce:
“This type of violence inflicts enormous damage on victims and the broader community.
“Resolving crimes of this nature will always be a priority for Victoria Police and this investigation will remain ongoing until all offenders have been identified and held to account.
“If there are people out there who have knowledge about these groups, then I would continue to urge you to come forward and this can also be done anonymously via Crime Stoppers.
“Detectives from the Gang Crime Squad will continue to actively work to target and disrupt gangs such as this and ensure we prevent them causing further harm to the community.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link
