An alleged vehicle rebirthing syndicate operating across Melbourne has been dismantled, with 10 vehicles and stolen car parts worth $1.5 million seized across the northern and south-eastern suburbs.
Investigators from the Melton Divisional Crime Tasking Team - with assistance from the Greater Dandenong Crime Investigation and Vehicle Crime Squad units - executed seven search warrants at properties in the Keysborough, Carrum Downs and Brookfield areas, from about 10.30am on Tuesday 16 June.
During the searches, police seized eight high-end Holden HSVs, a Jeep Grand Cherokee and a Toyota Landcruiser, as well as spare parts including:
- Doors
- Engine blocks
- Fake registration plates
- Transmission
- Car seats
- Bonnets
- Wheels
It will be alleged the vehicles had been stolen from across Melbourne and potentially interstate, with VIN numbers and engine stamps removed and replaced with new ones before the cars were re-registered.
Three people were arrested and charged:
- A 23-year-old man from Brookfield was charged with three counts of theft of motor vehicle, seven counts of breach of bail, and one count of obtain property by deception. He was remanded to appear in Sunshine Magistrates' Court on 17 June, where his bail was revoked and he will next appear at Wyndham Magistrates' Court on 30 July.
- A 24-year-old man from Carrum Downs was charged with three counts of theft of motor vehicle, and two counts of possessing suspected proceeds of crime. He was bailed to appear in Sunshine Magistrates' Court on 14 September.
- A 41-year-old man from Park Orchards was charged with five counts of theft of motor vehicle, and one count each of handling stolen good and possessing proceeds of crime. He was granted bail to appear in Dandenong Magistrates' Court on 17 December.
As investigations continue, anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make an online report via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au. Reports can be made anonymously.
