Police are searching for two groups of young offenders over recent robberies at Highpoint shopping centre in Maribyrnong.
In the first incident, two boys approached two other boys at a burger shop about 1.15pm on January 13, demanding a mobile phone from the victims, aged 12 and 13.
The offenders, believed to be in their early teens, punched one of the victims and stole one of their hats before fleeing the scene with another boy.
In a later incident, about 7.15pm on January 20, a group of seven youths approached two 14-year-old boys in restrooms, demanding their mobile phones.
One of the offenders punched one of the victims, causing minor injuries, before the group fled via Aquatic Drive.
A spokeswoman for Highpoint’s managers, GPT, said the safety and security of visitors to Highpoint was always a priority.
“We can’t discuss our security measures in detail, but we invest to ensure the safety and security of all visitors, through security staffing and CCTV,” she said. “Such incidents are unacceptable in the centre.”
Police have released CCTV and images of youths they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.
Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
