Cade Lucas
A Hoppers Crossing tackle shop owner says a second ram raid on his business in the last three months has left him ‘feeling sick in the guts.”
Thieves drove through the front doors of Hooked On Bait and Tackle in Old Geelong Road,, Hoppers Crossing about 5.40am on Sunday December 3, stealing fishing equipment estimated to be worth in the $10,000s.
The vehicle involved in the ram raid was found burnt out on Industrial Avenue, Hoppers Crossing a short time later.
Shop owner Michael Felsovary said he knew exactly what had happened when he was alerted by an alarm early on Sunday.
“A soon as it goes off you just get that sick feeling in the guts, it’s a terrible feeling,” said Mr Felsovary, who believes the incident is linked to a similar ram raid in September that also resulted in $1000s worth of equipment being stolen and which itself followed two unsuccessful attempts.
“It’s the same M.O so it appears to be connected.
“It’s not just us, there’s been a number of other stores done. It’s not a personal thing.”
Police are investigating if the incident is linked to burglaries at other tackle shops in recent months, including in Sunshine and Mt Derrimut.
Hooked on Bait and Tackle stocks high end, premium fishing equipment such as rods, lures and teasers.
Mr Felsovary believes this is one of the reasons he’s been targeted.
“You’re not gonna do a ram raid and destroy a $40,000 vehicle for a two dollar item,” he said.
Mr Felsovary said the incident will impact his family owned business and its eight employees and urged locals to keep businesses like his in mind at this time of year.
“Coming up to Christmas, whatever industry it is, shop local and support your local stores. We all work hard to provide a service.”
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
