Seven arrested in new operation targeting commercial burglaries

A new police operation targeting commercial burglaries in the Fishermans Bend and Southbank areas has seen seven people arrested during February and March.

Operation Pilot, which is coordinated by Melbourne East Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT), is a joint response with general duties police, the dog squad and air wing.

They have been targeting a series of commercial burglaries of premises in and around Todd Rd, Fishermans Bend, where more than $150,000 worth of damage was caused to sites, along with copper theft.

The arrests were made after seven people were caught allegedly trying to flee commercial sites.

“The success of this coordinated response shows the good work community, and police can play together in delivering great outcomes,” Victoria Police said.

“Operation Pilot will be on going, and NPT will continue to investigate a number of scrap metal and copper thefts in the area.”

The operation was launched in conjunction with Southbank stakeholders, Knight Facilities Management, Development Victoria and Leonardo Australia Pty Ltd.

Anyone with information in relation to commercial scrap metal and copper thefts in and around the local area are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. •