By CASEY NEILL
POLICE have charged 10 youths over two armed assaults in central Dandenong, and are appealing for witnesses to others that could be linked.
The Journal last week reported that police were hunting attackers brandishing metal poles who robbed two people in Foster and McCrae streets on 8 September.
Greater Dandenong CIU Detective Senior Constable Lee-Anne Clinton said police had since charged 10 Greater Dandenong and Casey residents aged between 15 and 18 years with two counts of armed robbery and a number of assaults.
Two youths were remanded to appear in Melbourne Children’s Court in February.
The remaining eight offenders were released with strict bail conditions, including curfews, to return to Dandenong Children’s Court on 22 November.
Det Sen Const Clinton said police were investigating whether other assaults in the area in the weeks leading up to 8 September were linked.
“There were a few fights and things around the plaza,” she said.
“Some were reported and some not but we have video footage from the Plaza.”
Dandenong Inspector Bruce Kitchen said officers would not tolerate violence in any place in Dandenong.
“This is a lesson for other people who resort to violence,” he said.
“The safety of the community’s paramount to us and we’ll work around the clock.”
Call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 with any information.
