Four teens charged over alleged arson, theft spree targeting tobacco store, event reception centre in Melbourne

Four teenagers have been charged over a number of incidents linked to two alleged arson attacks and aggravated thefts in Melbourne. Victoria Police’s gang crime squad executed search warrants at three homes in Springvale, Mulgrave and Pakenham about 7am on Monday. Two boys and two girls were arrested and charged early on Saturday morning. A 16-year-old Pakenham girl will spend the night behind bars after she was charged with two counts of criminal damage by fire, conduct endangering life, and theft of a motor vehicle. A 15-year-old Springvale boy was charged with two counts of aggravated burglary, three counts of handling stolen goods, car theft and possession of a prohibited weapon. A 14-year-old Mulgrave boy was charged with aggravated burglary and theft of a motor vehicle, and a 16-year-old Mulgrave girl was charged with theft of a motor vehicle. The three other teens were all bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date. Police will allege a white Isuzu D Max and a silver Ford Ranger were stolen during an aggravated burglary in Wonga Park between 10pm on February 19 and 7am on February 20. The Ford Ranger was then allegedly used in an arson attack at an event reception centre in Thomastown on February 22. The car was found burnt out in Bundoora. A 20-year-old St Albans man was charged on Thursday in relation to that incident. About 3.40am on Tuesday, the Isuzu D Max was allegedly involved in an attempted arson at a Mill Park restaurant on The Link. The D Max allegedly reversed towards the front door of the premises and a number of offenders jumped out of the vehicle, with one reaching back in to remove a jerry can. A witness observed the vehicle and ran towards the scene, causing the alleged offenders to flee. The same vehicle was then allegedly used the following day in an arson attack at a tobacconist on Sturt Street in Ballarat about 3.35am. The store was significantly damaged during the incident. A short time later, the vehicle was located burnt out on Eureka Street. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information on any organised crime activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.