A group of off-road motorcyclists caught on camera riding recklessly in Wyndham and showering police with dirt and rocks, have been arrested in a series of raids across Melbourne’s south-west.
Three 15-year-olds were taken into custody when police swooped on houses at Hoppers Crossing, Tarneit and Williamstown on Tuesday.
Dashcam footage released last month showed around 15 riders on unregistered bikes riding dangerously in front of officers.
Police arrested one of the offenders but the group then came back, circling officers in a menacing manner and spraying dirt and debris over police and their vehicle.
Two bikes were impounded during the July 29 incident.
The teenagers arrested on Tuesday have been charged with offences including:
- Reckless conduct endangering serious injury
- Dangerous, careless and unlicenced driving
- Driving an unregistered motor vehicle
- Using an unroadworthy vehicle
- Disobeying traffic signals
The trio have been bailed to appear in court at a later date and police will apply for their motorcycles to be forfeited.
Inspector Jennifer Horgan, of the Westgate Police Division, said the Highway Patrol would be “relentless” in tracking down anyone who believes they can endanger lives in Victorian roads.
“I’m urging parents to have a conversation with their children around the safe use of bikes,” Inspector Horgan said.
“Riding them on our streets and through parks illegally is not OK. You might think it’s harmless fun but one day it could end in tragedy.”
The investigation is ongoing and police expect further arrests to be made.
Anyone with information about illegal dirt bike riding is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the website at www.crimestoppersvic.gov.au.
