Five youths have been arrested as police ramp up investigation into an illegal motorbike riding event occurring just days before Christmas.
Those arrested include a 19-year-old Reservoir man, a 20-year-old Craigieburn man, a 17-year-old Dallas boy, a 15-year-old Manor Lakes boy and a 16-year-old Springvale boy.
The Reservoir man was charged with 15 offences including criminal damage after allegedly damaging a police vehicle, reckless conduct endangering life, reckless conduct endangering serious injury, dangerous driving, improper use of a motor vehicle, driving without number plates, unlicensed driving and possessing a drug of dependence.
He was bailed to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on April 19.
The Craigieburn man, and Dallas and Springvale boys were released and are expected to be charged on summons with reckless conduct endangering life, driving unlicensed and driving an unregistered vehicle.
A 19-year-old Broadmeadows man was not present when police were executing a warrant at his house and was later interviewed by appointment.
He was released pending summons for reckless conduct endangering life, unlicensed driving and driving an unregistered vehicle.
The Manor Lakes boy was released pending further questioning.
Inspector Dean Allen from North West Metro Achilles Taskforce said police implored youths to think about their actions.
“This kind of high-risk behaviour is nothing to brag about. It could seriously injure or kill you, your friends or an innocent road user,” he said.
“If you’re lucky enough to escape injury you could still be hit with criminal charges which means facing a magistrate and having your precious bike seized. It’s just not worth it.
“We’re imploring parents to sit down with their kids and explain the risk of this kind of behaviour. The last thing we want to do is to have to notify a parent when a tragedy occurs.”
Police will continue making enquiries into the whereabouts of the motorbikes used in the incident.
Anyone with information about illegal dirt bike riding is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Anyone who witnesses illegal or dangerous dirt bike riding in the act should call Triple Zero immediately.
