Victoria Police have dismantled what they allege is a coordinated theft syndicate responsible for stealing up to $10 million worth of goods from Melbourne supermarkets.
Nineteen people have been arrested, with police describing the group as a “co-ordinated criminal enterprise” involving mostly Indian nationals on temporary, student, and bridging visas. Seven men, aged between 21 and 43, are described as key arrests.
The thieves allegedly targeted high-demand and high-value products including baby formula, medicines, vitamins, skincare products, electric toothbrushes, and toiletries. Footage released by police shows one man arrested with a backpack stuffed with toothpaste boxes and honey, while another had shopping bags containing multiple tins of baby formula.
Acting Inspector Rachele Ciavarella said the group was stealing not just for personal use, but as part of a broader operation to profit from stolen goods.
The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation, with police warning that more arrests are expected.
