Jaidyn Kennedy
Police arrested almost 20 people and recovered four stolen vehicles during a nightly operation targeting vehicle theft in Wyndham.
As part of Operation Vista members from the Westgate Divisional Response Unit saturated roads each night, scanning vehicles to detect stolen cars and motorbikes, and arresting individuals wanted on outstanding warrants between August 5-8.
Those arrested included four 16-year-old boys who allegedly fled from a stolen BMW which had crashed into a police vehicle in Truganina on August 5.
A man was arrested the same night after police observed a motorbike bearing stolen numberplates in Tarneit about 7.50pm. Checks revealed the bike was stolen as well.
The 35-year-old man was charged with theft of a motor vehicle and fraudulently use registration label.
Police also charged another man after they discovered a stolen Toyota sedan parked outside a hotel in Werribee about 10pm on August 8.
The 30-year-old man was found in the hotel and was later charged with theft of motor vehicle, possessing a controlled weapon in licensed premises and handling stolen goods.
Throughout the operation officers checked more than 250 vehicles and executed 12 outstanding warrants and whereabouts for outstanding matters.
This included two boys – aged 16 and 17 –wanted for outstanding offences including robbery and aggravated burglary.
A further 10 people were arrested during the operation for a range of offences including deception, possessing drugs and affray.
Westgate Divisional Response Unit Detective Acting Sergeant Thomas Scott said some people fall victim to opportunistic crimes because their cars are left unlocked.
“We’d like to remind the community to always ensure your vehicle is locked, even if it is parked in a secure driveway.” he said.
“The message is clear – if you’re travelling around in a stolen vehicle in Wyndham you can expect to be caught.”
