By CASEY NEILL
A Springvale family of six sheltered in a locked bedroom while thieves stole their keys and two cars.
Police believe up to five intruders broke a window and entered the Heather Grove home about 1.45am on Sunday 24 July.
A man woke his wife, three children and father-in-law and locked them all into a back bedroom, where they stayed until the thieves left the house.
They drove away in the family’s two cars, a white Audi four-wheel drive with registration YJD 850 and a Toyota Camry sedan with registration UTC 206.
Police saw the Toyota in Bourke Street, Melbourne, about 3.30am. Its driver fled from the officers and was last seen travelling north on Elizabeth Street.
Police found the Audi abandoned in Leonard Avenue, Noble Park.
Southern Metro investigators are looking after the matter as part of Operation Cosmas.
In May, Victoria Police drew together investigators across the state through Operation Cosmas and allocated additional resources to prevent, deter and investigate aggravated burglaries and carjackings.
Day and night patrols are being conducted at high-risk locations to prevent offences taking place, and almost 80 arrests have been made.
Call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au with any information about the break-in.
