Melbourne: 17 Arrested in Southbank Carpark Crime Crackdown

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Victoria Police have intensified their efforts to curb vehicle-related crime in Melbourne’s Southbank precinct following a noticeable rise in break-ins and thefts across multi-level car parks.

While no formal operation titled “Operation Zenith” has been publicly confirmed, authorities have previously conducted targeted patrols and interventions in the area to address recurring issues of theft from and of motor vehicles. Police sources indicate that a growing number of overnight incidents involve unlocked vehicles and unattended valuables.

Recent enforcement activity led to multiple arrests across Southbank, though the exact figures and full scope of the operation have not been officially disclosed. Police continue to warn that many incidents go unreported, with past analyses suggesting that a significant portion of thefts and break-ins may never reach police records.

In a separate but related incident, Victoria Police responded to a disturbance at a liquor store on Flinders Street around 10:15 p.m. on Saturday, 20 July. While no official statement has confirmed the arrest details, such retail incidents have previously involved groups of young offenders and resulted in charges ranging from theft to assault. Police routinely monitor Melbourne’s central precincts through CCTV and the Safe City Network.

Officers have also made arrests in Southbank carparks for unrelated offences including possession of stolen property and drug-related matters. In some cases, individuals have been found with stolen number plates or prohibited items during vehicle checks.

Authorities have reiterated the importance of community cooperation and personal vigilance. Residents and visitors are urged to lock their vehicles, avoid leaving valuables inside, and report any suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers or their local police station.

Police have not confirmed ongoing partnerships with private security firms in connection with Southbank enforcement activities, but continue to coordinate visible patrols and investigations in high-risk locations.

The investigation into recent incidents remains ongoing, and further details may be released as cases progress through the legal system.