METRO: Thieves target medical centres
Police have busted an alleged serial thief who targeted medical facilities across Melbourne to steal payment terminals.
Detectives from the North West Meto Regional Crime Squad have been investigating a series of burglaries at medical facilities, occurring between August 30 and September 14.
The thefts occurred at medical facilities right across Melbourne, including Bruns-wick, Camberwell, Mordialloc, Seabrook and St Kilda.
Some 13 payment terminals were taken , along with cash and electronics.
A 32-year-old Melbourne man was arrested on Sunday, November 23, with the assistance of the Special Operations Group.
It is alleged the man had been using two stolen cars, a 2017 Subaru Wagon and a Toyota Fortuna, which were both recovered.
He was subsequently charged with seven counts of burglary, two counts of theft of motor vehicle, prohibited person possess firearm, possess cartridge, deal with property in the proceeds of crime, conduct endangering persons, posses methylamphet-amine and various traffic offences.
He has been remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on December 2.
Police also charged an alleged associate of the man.
Detectives arrested a 37-year-old man from Melbourne on November 4 in relation to the alleged burglaries.
He was charged with theft of motor vehicle, handle stolen goods, traffick and possession of methyl amphetamine.
Police are reminding about steps that can be taken to help reduce the risk of becoming victims of burglaries or thefts, including:
- Upgrading locks to commercial-grade deadbolts or electronic locks with audit trails.
- Reinforcing doors and windows with security film or bars.
Install monitored alarm system and CCTV cameras at entry points. - Lock all terminals away and avoid keeping any PIN details in the vicinity of the terminal.
North West Metro Regional Crime Squad, Detective Senior Sergeant Haydn Beale said:
“These arrests highlight our commitment to disrupting syndicates who attempt to target businesses.
“We take these reports seriously, and we will do everything we can to hold offenders to account.
“If you fall victim to a break-in, please don’t touch anything and report the matter as soon as possible to give police the best chance to investigate.”
Pictured; Melbourne Magistrates’ Court