JULY 28, 2015 \ MELTON.STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
NEWS + SPORT + PROPERTY GUIDE
Guns on thieves’ hit list Thieves are targeting rural properties on the outskirts of Melton because there’s a good chance they will find guns there. And police are warning home owners they should ask neighbours to keep an eye on their properties for them. Senior Sergeant Barry Jenks, of Melton’s crime investigation unit, said dozens of homes in Toolern Vale, Diggers Rest, Rockbank and Plumpton had been burgled in the past few months. “In a couple of them, the home owners were on extended holidays and there were tell-tale signs that nobody was home,” he said. “So, at the minimum, tell your neighbours to keep an eye out on your property when you’re away.” Senior Sergeant Jenks said police believed the burglars were targeting rural homes because “if they want to source a firearm, most farms will have a firearm”. He said the most common weapons stolen were .22 rifles and 12-gauge shotguns. While most of the stolen firearms were sold on the black market or used for personal reasons, Senior Sergeant Jenks said some were used in armed robberies or more serious offences. “And sometimes offenders want firearms because, in some cultures, there’s the idea they need to be armed,” he said. In one recent robbery, thieves broke
into a home at Minns Road, Melton, on Wednesday, July 16, or the following day and stole a .22 rifle, jewellery and other items. A day later, thieves made off with a computer and a television set from a property on Search Road, Diggers Rest. Senior Sergeant Jenks said police were following a number of leads.
‘‘
Most farms will have a firearm
’’
- Barry Jenks
“We think these rural burglaries are a little bit more organised,” Senior Sergeant Jenks said. “The ones in the suburbs are generally opportunistic or drug-related or the offender is drug-affected. “But I’m not attributing this rise to the urban sprawl; there are offenders out there targeting rural properties as their MO [modus operandum].” Police are urging residents in rural areas to be extra cautious when locking up for holidays. “Don’t leave the place unlocked,” Senior Sergeant Jenks said. “Make it as if it’s being lived in or tell neighbours or relatives to keep an eye on your property.” Anyone with information is urged to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic .com.au.
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(Shawn Smits)
By Sumeyya Ilanbey
Royalty for a day Aariz and Elisapeta are 100 days into the school year, and they celebrated the milestone in a most regal way. The Melton South Primary School pupils joined their friends in grades 1 and 2 by donning crowns and wearing big smiles last Tuesday. Grade 1 teacher Amanda Larizza said the pupils were excited to celebrate the 100 days in such a colourful way. “We make a big fuss about it – have photographers and generally make it a big deal. They really enjoy it,” Ms Larizza said. “It makes them feel important because we dedicate a whole day to it.” Sumeyya Ilanbey
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