Victorian Emergency SES vehicles broken into, thousands of dollars’ worth of volunteer equipment stolen
In a disgraceful blow to the community, lifesaving gear worth thousands has been stolen putting locals at risk during an upcoming weekend of wild weather.
Multiple Victorian SES vehicles were found broken into with thousands of dollars worth of volunteering equipment missing.
The vehicles were parked inside the VICSES Essendon unit facility on Rutherford Street when they were broken into at 1am on Wednesday, Victoria Police said.
CCTV footage shows four offenders jumping the gate of the facility and using tools to force entry into the equipment storage at the rear end of the vehicles.
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The stolen items, valued at over $40,000, are vital equipment for volunteers when responding to floods, storms and other emergency incidents.
Two offenders returned around 2.30am the same morning and stole more tools.
Detectives have released CCTV and still images of the four men they wish to speak to in relation to the incident.
One man is described as caucasian in appearance, wearing a black T-shirt with text on the front (saying Fear of God Essentials), a black baseball cap with a motif on the front and text on the left-hand side, light purple/red shorts and light grey Adidas Gazelle style shoes.
The second man is described as caucasian in appearance, wearing a black hoodie with white text on the back, black shorts and black and white TN Nike shoes.
The third man is described as caucasian in appearance, wearing a grey hoodie, blue gloves, light blue pants and black running shoes.
The forth man is described as caucasian in appearance, wearing a black T-shirt with a white cross logo on the back, black (possibly Champion branded pants) and white high-top shoes.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or information, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Originally published as Police hunt four men after emergency service unit looted of vital tools
