Yarra Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after offensive graffiti was located in Fitzroy overnight.
Police were called to reports a group of offenders had spray painted hate-based graffiti on several marquees on Gertrude Street about 11.50pm.
The marquees had been set up for an event running over the weekend.
It is understood one of the offenders was armed with a machete.
The group fled on foot through Atherton Gardens towards Napier Street.
Police patrolled the surrounding area and located more graffiti on walls on Smith Street.
There is absolutely no place at all in our society for hate-based symbols and behaviour and investigations are ongoing.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
