Wild moment cops take down alleged machete-wielding teen during investigation into Melbourne arson attacks
A teenager who allegedly wielded a machete has been arrested and charged by police during an investigation into a series of alleged arson attacks in Melbourne.
The teenager and two men, both 18, are accused of visiting three nightclub venues in Melbourne in the early hours of May 4 and 5 this year and causing fire-related damage.
One of the men was arrested during a raid in Tarneit.
A 17-year-old boy from the Wyndham area and another man, also from Tarneit, were arrested at Maribyrnong shopping center at around 10am on Thursday.
Police allege the 17-year-old was “armed with a machete.”
The trio are charged with a number of offenses including aggravated burglary, criminal damage, arson, attempted arson, handling stolen goods, committing a bailable offense, failing to stop and possession of cannabis.
The two men were detained and were due to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
The teenager will appear in court on Thursday evening, where police will object to his release on bail.
A Victoria Police spokesman said Operation Eclipse detectives continue to target serious and organized crime syndicates believed to be involved and determine the motive for these attacks.
The spokesman said Gang Crime, Arson and Explosives teams were working with local police and regional detectives to respond to and investigate these incidents.
“Police continue to have an increased presence, both overt and covert, in these entertainment precincts, including increased patrols and visits to licensed premises,” a spokesman said.
