Police have arrested three Macedon Ranges locals among 18 people of interest in an organised crime syndicate bust.
Vehicle Crime Squad detectives seized more than 70 vehicles as part of a nine-month investigation into car re-birthing linked to the syndicate.
The syndicate operated in Melbourne’s outer northern and western suburbs, with stolen vehicles and machinery being taken to rural properties to be dismantled, re-birthed and sold for profit.
The investigation launched after police received a tip-off to potential criminal activity at a property, which led to further investigations.
It’s alleged the syndicate was involved in the supply of vehicles to other criminal groups and offenders, with many of the seized vehicles subsequently linked to other incidents such as pursuits.
Between May and September, detectives executed 32 warrants across residential, rural and business properties, seizing 53 motor vehicles, 18 motorcycles, 27 trailers, 19 vehicle engines, five high-end bicycles, three earthmoving machines, a tow truck and a boat.
Seized vehicle makes included Porsche, BMW, Alfa Romeo, Audi, Volkswagen, Subaru, Mini Cooper, Mitsubishi, Holden, Nissan, Ford, Kawasaki, KTM, Yamaha and Harley Davidson.
During the warrants, police also seized four high-powered firearms and ammunition, cash, drugs including methylamphetamines, cannabis, GHB and cocaine, and hundreds of stolen power tools and auto parts.
In total, more than 800 items of property valued at more than $2.5 million were seized by investigators.
Twelve men and six women have been charged with more than 300 offences as part of the investigation.
A 61-year-old Lancefield woman was arrested on July 7 and charged in relation to handling stolen goods and criminal damage by fire. She was bailed to appear at Kyneton Magistrates Court on October 12.
A 36-year-old Romsey woman was arrested the same day and charged with eight offences in relation to handling stolen goods, criminal damage by fire and possessing proceeds of crime. She was bailed to appear at Kyneton Magistrates Court on October 12.
A 33-year-old Lancefield man was arrested on June 19 and charged with 21 offences related to theft and handling stolen goods. He was remanded in custody to appear at Kyneton Magistrates Court on September 28.
Detective Superintendent Peter Brigham, who oversees the Crime Command’s State Anti-Gang Division, said the arrests and seizure of goods was “an enormous win”.
“Vehicle theft had an incredibly detrimental impact on the community in a variety of ways, including the use of the stolen vehicles in the commission of other serious crimes and allowing offenders to move around more easily,” he said.
“This syndicate had no regard for the safety of the community and this is further evidenced by the firearms seizures linked to this investigation.”
Det. Supt Brigham said the community played a key role in providing information to police about suspicious activity.
Anyone with information about vehicle crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or by visiting the website: www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
