Thieves targeted homes, a sports pavilion and businesses across Melton during the Australia Day long weekend.
Detective Senior Constable Chris Jackman said local businesses had been targeted and damage was caused during a number of apparently random break-ins.
A sports pavilion on Reynolds Place and a bakery on High Street were among the properties hit by burglars.
Senior Constable Jackman said investigations were under way and police wanted to remind the community to be vigilant.
“[We] would like to remind residents and local business owners to be vigilant at all times, and especially over the long weekends,” Senior Constable Jackman said.
He said police were also conducting patrols in the areas being targeted.
Senior Constable Jackman encouraged residents and business owners to ensure they had the appropriate security measures in place.
“We remind residents and business owners to ensure their alarm systems and CCTV cameras are operational and in working order and their premises are sufficiently secured.”
The sports pavilion on Reynolds Place has previously been the target of many burglaries. Charges were laid in relation to several of the incidents there, but police are yet to identify the offenders of the most recent break-in.
On this occasion, alcohol was stolen from the pavilion’s kitchen.
Homes in Burnside Heights, Rockbank and Caroline Springs were also broken into over the long weekend.
A custom-made chopper motorcycle was stolen from the rear of a property in Burnside Heights on Australia Day.
A Caucasian male, about 170‐180cm tall with solid build and wearing dark pants, a dark hoodie and a balaclava was observed in the vicinity.
Senior Constable Jackman said police had spoken with several victims.
Police are encouraging people to report suspicious behaviour to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or, if the matter is urgent, to call 000.
