By Ewen McRae
Police will set up a mobile van in Taylors Hill this afternoon as part of an ongoing investigation into an incident earlier this month.
Police will be based near Lonzo Park from 3pm to 7pm and encourage local residents to drop in to discuss any local policing concerns.
It comes after police responded to an incident on August 8, which involved two groups of youths from across Melbourne meeting in the area for a fight.
Brimbank Crime Investigation Unit detectives have spoken to several people as part of their investigation, including residents, schools, and community leaders.
North West Metro Region Commander Tim Hansen said those who gathered in the area on August 8 were primarily school-aged youths and included a significant number of females.
“It is clear that people were fearful of the youths’ activities on the night, which is why we have committed significant time and resources into our investigation,” Commander Hansen said.
“As part of our inquiries, we have spoken to two persons of interest and also identified a number of causal factors that contributed to what occurred in Taylors Hill. These have been incorporated into what has become a complex, ongoing investigation.
“Police have also widely canvassed the Taylors Hill area, speaking to residents to review initial complaints of brawls and damage to bus shelters in the area.
“We have not identified any people who directly witnessed these incidents or are in a position to provide a statement that we can verify.”
Police have been unable to identify those responsible for damage to a police vehicle on the night.
Police say apart from damage to a police vehicle, there were no further issues, no injuries and no threats to community safety in the area on the night.
An altercation between two females did occur later that night at an unknown location. Investigators have spoken to the victim in this matter and a number of other persons including local school representatives. This investigation remains ongoing but is sensitive in nature.
“Caroline Springs and Melton police would like to reassure residents that community safety is their number one priority,” Commander Hansen said.
