Julianne Langshaw
POLICE have arrested and charged five males, including four teenagers, over an alleged violent home invasion in Sale on Sunday night.
About 9.30pm on Sunday, police say five offenders with hoodies and masks approached a property in Marley St, Sale.
It is understood some of the alleged offenders distracted the man by asking for lemons from his tree, while others went into the back yard.
A short time later the man noticed his garage door ajar, and was confronted by the offenders.
Armed with knives, police allege they directed the 65-year-old home occupant inside, making demands for cash and his car keys.
Police say the man was tied to one of his kitchen chairs and gagged, while thieves ransacked the house, stealing items and then fleeing in the victim’s vehicle.
Later that night there was a short pursuit at Lakes Entrance involving the vehicle. It was later recovered in Lakes Entrance.
Police subsequently arrested four male teenagers, one from Sale, one from Moe and two from Bairnsdale, along with a 34-year-old Sale man.
The teenagers have been charged with multiple offences and have been bailed to appear at Sale Children’s Court.
The Sale man was remanded in custody to appear at Bairnsdale Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
All have been charged with aggravated home invasion, armed robbery, false imprisonment and going equipped to steal, along with other charges.
Police were door knocking in the area on Monday, and Sale police Inspector Craig Gaffee said information from the public had assisted in the arrests.
“People have a right to feel safe in their community,” he said.
“We are really glad we have been able to apprehend the alleged offenders.”
Police are still investigating the incident, and people who saw anything suspicious around that time should phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or Sale police on 5142 2200.
