April 16th, 202526 arrests and multiple vehicles recovered in Hume car theft operation
Police have arrested 26 people and recovered eight stolen cars as part of an operation targeting car thieves and burglars in Broadmeadows and Craigieburn earlier this month.
Victoria Police says car theft is a significant priority for police in Hume, with the area having the third most cars stolen across the state last year – a 44% increase.
Police intelligence shows that more than a third of cars targeted in the area are unlocked or have open windows. Similarly, it is common for offenders to sneak into houses with unlocked doors or open windows to steal car keys.
The week-long operation ran overnight earlier this month, targeting those committing burglaries to steal cars across Broadmeadows and Craigieburn.
Local general duties police were supported by the Air Wing and the Dog Squad to track down offenders and outstanding stolen cars in the area.
The operation led to the following results:
- 26 people arrested, with police laying more than 80 charges all together
- Eight stolen cars recovered
- Impounded three cars for traffic offences including driving on suspended licence and excessive speed
- 27 infringement notices issued for driving offences
- 42 vehicles checked
The operation ran from 30 March – 5 April in the Broadmeadows and Craigieburn areas. More operations are planned in the future, police say.
In addition to the targeted operation, detectives from the nearby Merribek Crime Investigation Unit also arrested two people last week for two separate alleged aggravated burglaries where offenders crept in to properties without occupants realising.
If anyone has information about car thieves, this can be reported to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
