Victoria Police have busted an alleged serial thief who they say targeted medical facilities across Melbourne to steal payment terminals.
The arrest follows an investigation by detectives from the North West Meto Regional Crime Squad into a series of burglaries at medical facilities that occurred between 30 August and 14 September.
Police say the thefts occurred at medical facilities right across Melbourne, including Brunswick, Camberwell, Mordialloc, Seabrook and St Kilda.
In total, 13 payment terminals were allegedly stolen, along with cash and electronics.
“A 32-year-old Melbourne man was arrested on Sunday with the assistance of the Special Operations Group,” Victoria Police said in a statement.
“It’s alleged the man had been using two stolen cars, a 2017 Subaru Wagon and a Toyota Fortuna, which were both recovered.”
He was subsequently charged with seven counts of burglary, two counts of theft of motor vehicle, prohibited person possess firearm, possess cartridge, deal with property in the proceeds of crime, conduct endangering persons, posses methylamphetamine and various traffic offences.
He has been remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 2 December.
Police also charged an alleged associate of the man – a 37-year-old man from Melbourne – earlier this month in relation to the alleged burglaries. He was charged with theft of motor vehicle, handle stolen goods, traffick and possession of methyl amphetamine.
“These arrests highlight our commitment to disrupting syndicates who attempt to target businesses,” said North West Metro Regional Crime Squad, Detective Senior Sergeant Haydn Beale.
“We take these reports seriously, and we will do everything we can to hold offenders to account.
“If you fall victim to a break-in, please don’t touch anything and report the matter as soon as possible to give police the best chance to investigate.”
Police are reminding the community about steps that can be taken to help reduce the risk of becoming victims of burglaries or thefts, including:
- Upgrading locks to commercial-grade deadbolts or electronic locks with audit trails.
- Reinforcing doors and windows with security film or bars.
- Install monitored alarm system and CCTV cameras at entry points.
- Lock all terminals away and avoid keeping any PIN details in the vicinity of the terminal.
Anyone with information about criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the website at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
