By Tate Papworth
Taskforce Wayward has taken over the investigation into a series of assaults and robberies in Sunshine earlier this month.
Inspector Jamie Templeton said police were working around the clock to piece together what took place during the Sunshine crime spree.
“We’ve got a dedicated team of detectives working to identify who the offenders are and to piece together all that took place,” he said.
Taskforce Wayward was established last year as part of a new approach to working with youth offenders considered at high risk of re-offending. It closely monitored “high-risk” youths – such as those who have committed aggravated burglaries and home invasions – from areas including Wyndham, Melton, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong.
Police are searching for a group of up to 15 male offenders, aged between 14 to 20, following the violent rampage in Sunshine on Saturday, March 2.
In the first incident, a 35-year-old man walking along Hertford Street about 11.25pm was assaulted and robbed.
Shortly after, in Kennedy Street, two teenage boys were assaulted and robbed.
All three victims were taken to hospital but have since been released.
A 13-year-old girl and a 13-year-old Melton boy were also confronted by a group on Kennedy Street. The boy was assaulted and robbed. A 14-year-old girl was later assaulted with a stick and robbed.
Inspector Templeton urged anyone who might be able to assist police to come forward.
“We’d certainly like to speak to anyone who may have captured dashcam footage or CCTV vision of the events which took place,” he said.
“The best way to get in touch with us is through CrimeStoppers or by contacting the Sunshine police station.”
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
