No reports, no investigation

POLICE are urging victims of a series of attacks in Heathcote Junction to file a formal report, emphasising that without proper documentation, investigations into the perpetrators cannot proceed.

Between November 2, 2024, and January 13, 2025, two youths, suspected to be aged between 12 and 16 years, have been targeting unassuming drivers in what has been described as ‘dangerous and reckless pranks’ by locals.

The first victim of the attacks alerted nearby residents to the troublemakers via an anonymous Facebook post, stating that the children, dressed in black, had jumped out in front of their car at approximately 8pm, necessitating a swerve.

Reports of several more incidents emerged throughout the month, with posts made on November 4, 5, 13, 15, and 23 stating that the attacks were continuing, but now involved the children throwing water balloons—some filled with cola lemonade—at unsuspecting drivers, and laying branches, wood, and tyres across the road in the middle of the night.

Concerningly, a post on December 12 stated the culprits had escalated to throwing rocks.

The most recent incident is believed to have occurred on January 13, when a driver was hit with a water balloon, narrowly avoiding a parked car as they swerved in fright.

Despite being aware of social media posts that detail the time and location of some of the attacks, including the possible identity of the culprits, Kilmore Police stated that without formal reports, it would be difficult to investigate the crimes.

“At this stage, Kilmore Police are yet to receive any [formal] reports of incidents involving youths causing trouble in the vicinity of Heathcote Junction railway station,” they said.

”Police will not tolerate any criminal or anti-social behaviour that causes angst in the community, so encourage anyone who is aware of such behaviour to contact police.

“Anyone who witnesses any suspicious, anti-social, or criminal activity occurring in the area is urged to contact their local police station, or if in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).”

While police have increased patrols of the area, a victim of one of the attacks stated that when they first approached officers for support, they were instructed to report the incident to Crime Stoppers instead.

“… from my understanding, nothing can be done until they are caught in the act by the police,” they said.

Several residents voiced their concerns online at the lack of surveillance cameras in the area, which, if installed, may assist police in their efforts to discover the perpetrators.

The Review reached out to V/Line to enquire whether cameras could be installed at the station but were not provided with a direct response, with a spokesperson instead encouraging witnesses to contact police.

“The safety of our passengers and staff is our priority and we encourage anyone who witnesses dangerous or illegal behaviour at stations or on our trains to contact Victoria Police,” they said.

The Review also reached out to Minister for Crime Prevention, Community Safety and Police Anthony Carbines and Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams for their support and to inform their offices of the incidents and the lack of surveillance in the area, but were not provided with a response.

Anyone with information regarding the attacks is urged to make a formal report to Crime Stoppers or contact Kilmore Police Sergeant Ryan Coleman.