Arrests keep up pressure – Senior Constable MacDonald and Dandenong police are trying to make

By Lia Bichel
POLICE say their continuous efforts to crack down on crime are cleaning up the streets of Dandenong.
The claims come after police arrested seven teenagers for a string of robberies at the Dandenong train station last week.
Police said the seven youths were involved in series of robberies at the Dandenong Train Station on 8 February during which they assaulted three people in three separate incidents.
Region 5 Crime Prevention Officer Senior Constable Eddy MacDonald said police were constantly trying to locate problematic areas.
He said police have asked Vic Urban and the council to make design improvements to those areas, such as installing extra lighting and cyclone fencing.
“We have conducted security audits in a number of locations and found some areas where kids were drinking, fighting and involved in anti-social behaviour,” Sen Const MacDonald said.
“We look at the areas that have issues and try to find a way to make it safer.
“Being a victim of crime has a profound affect on a person and everyone has the basic human right to feel safe in their environment.”
He said the group assaulted a 40-year-old Narre Warren South man and stole his mobile phone and wallet.
The man was knocked out during the attack and received serious head and eye injuries.
Police said the group also attempted to steal a 26-year-old Dandenong man’s mobile phone and repeatedly kicked and punched him, leaving him with facial injuries. Police said two members of the group also approached a 27-year-old Dandenong man who was waiting for a bus at the intersection of Foster Street and Robinson Street.
They demanded money and repeatedly punched and kicked him causing a swollen eye. Police later charged a 17-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl from Endeavour Hills, a 17-year-old boy from Cranbourne, a 16-year-old boy from Dandenong North and a 16-year-old boy, a 14-year old boy and 18-year old boy from Dandenong with robbery, affray, assaults, burglary and theft.
Sen Const MacDonald warned people to be aware of their personal safety at train stations.
“Try to stay in the reception area, a well-lit area or a place where people and security are around,” he said.
“If you feel threatened ask for assistance, don’t display your valuables, and be aware of your surroundings.”
Sen Const MacDonald conducts personal safety presentations to community organisations.
Anyone wanting further information about the presentations can contact Sen Const MacDonald on 9767 7530 or 0408 303 066.
Anyone with information about any criminal activity should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.