Fourteen people have been arrested, and 10 cars seized, during a police operation targeting hoon gatherings across Melbourne.
Members of the Taskforce Regarder executed 20 warrants at properties, “across Melbourne metro from Melton West to Mount Martha”, this morning and arrested the people in relation to intentional high-risk driving.
The taskforce was established late last year in response to the increasing number of hoon gatherings across metropolitan Melbourne.
Assistant Commissioner Robert Hill said the offenders were looking at serious criminal charges, including conduct endangering persons and life.
“These irresponsible people, including the event organisers and drivers, place their lives and the lives of others at risk,” he said.
“We’ve recently seen the tragic consequences of hoon driving were lost but unfortunately the reckless driving behaviour continues to plague our suburbs.”
The arrests come a week after the death of two Melbourne teenagers whose car plunged off the EJ Whitten Bridge while allegedly “drag racing” another car.
Assistant Commissioner Hill said hoon meetings were largely coordinated via social media, which are being monitored by police.
“The online activity of these drivers has played a significant role in police investigations,” he said.
“These hoons are arrogant, overconfident and cannot foresee the lasting consequences of their actions.
“They brag about their behaviour online and our message to them is we see you, we’ll find you, we’ll charge you and seize your car.”
