Three men have been arrested over a string of car part thefts and attempted thefts at railway stations across Melbourne’s South East, including in the Yarra Ranges and Knox.
Victoria Police allege 49 incidents involving 70 thefts from motor vehicles and five attempted thefts occurred between 5 May to 24 August 2021.
Ten local government areas were targeted including one incident in Yarra Ranges and three in Knox
The cars were targeted for parts to on sell, with police confirming exhaust parts were stolen.
Detective Acting Inspector Robert Milliken said the authorities are actively working to tackle crime on and around the public transport network.
“If your intention is to commit crime in the vicinity of public transport, don’t bother. You will be caught and held accountable,” he said.
“Thefts like this cause more than just inconvenience for car owners. These offences alone have caused about $35,000 worth of damage to the vehicles involved.”
Four warrants were executed Thursday 26 August in Cranbourne North, Noble Park and Cranbourne, arresting the men and seizing property including tools, car jacks and clothing.
A 20-year-old Cranbourne North man has been charged with 32 counts of theft from motor vehicle and attempted theft from motor vehicle.
A 24-year-old Noble Park man has been charged with 21 counts of theft from motor vehicle and attempted theft from motor vehicle.
A 21-year-old Cranbourne man has been charged with 37 counts of theft from motor vehicle and attempted theft from motor vehicle.
All three men were bailed to appear at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court at a later date.
Commuters have been told to stay vigilant of criminal activity.
“We urge car owners catching the train to park in well-lit areas where possible and remove valuables from their vehicles,” Det. Act. Insp. Milliken said.
