By Rowan Forster
Police have raided homes in Pakenham after an Airbnb rental in Hawthorn East was trashed and an elderly man bashed during an out-of-control party on Saturday night.
Detectives from the Boroondara Crime Investigation Unit seized a number of “exhibits” and questioned several local teens during a series of search warrants on Monday.
The numbers 3175 and 3810 were scrawled in black marker on the walls of the luxury property, likely referencing the postcodes of Dandenong and Pakenham.
During the ordeal, a 73-year-old man was assaulted by a gang of up to eight female youths of African appearance.
Graffiti including “block boyz” and “APEX” was also identified.
The incident has prompted fears the teen gangs are coming from Pakenham.
Former police officer and Latrobe MP Jason Wood has expressed the need for an Australian Federal Police Taskforce to be based in Melbourne’s south-east to thwart the activities of youth gangs.
He said the latest incident – which looks likely to have been perpetrated by Pakenham teens – is further evidence a crackdown is required.
“It’s disturbing to know that this gang, or group, is heavily linked to Pakenham,” he said.
“The State Government says it isn’t an issue and we’re not actually solving the underlying issues.
Mr Wood said he is meeting with Pakenham’s Les Twentyman Foundation branch this week to discuss funding further youth work.
“Early intervention at a young age is the key,” he said.
“They’re more than youth workers – they work inside the school system and steer these young people in the right direction.”
Police arrived at the property about 2am and returned hours later after reports of further noise and an altercation.
No arrests were made on the night.
“I saw between 50 and 60 young people spilling out onto the street, fist fighting, screaming,” one neighbour said.
Pakenham’s Brandon Hardwick recognised the “block boyz” tag, claiming he has witnessed it locally.
“I’ve seen it at the train station and on a few fences,” he said.
“You’d at least think they could be subtle about it.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
