Victorian police say "large numbers" of "deadly" pistol were stolen in an organized "targeted attack" on a Melbourne gun store.
Four masked men-one with a gun and at least another with a sledgehammer-entered a gun store in Thornbury High St, Melbourne`s North District, at about 11:00 on Monday, stealing many from the shelf.
Asked to comment on reports that up to 60 guns might have been stolen, assistant director of the state police Steven Fontana said the police knew more than a dozen guns had been stolen, but the numbers would not be known until a thorough audit.
"We know a lot of guns have been stolen, and that`s for sure. "he said at the press conference.
The armed man fled in a stolen white SUV, which was later found abandoned in Clapham St,., Thornbury district
Police have no suspects and no descriptions of the men wanted, calling on witnesses who may have seen the men before or after the incident to contact the crime line.
Assistant Director Steven Fontana said the investigation into the case was "high priority" given so many weapons stolen.
"this is a targeted attack. The criminal made a plan before entering the shop. " He said。
"they know what to look for. This is not a random crime. This is obviously aimed at that particular store to get these weapons. "
"it is clear that these weapons will be used in criminal attempts."
He called it an "extremely unusual" crime and said it was hard to say how much the guns were worth because they were "very expensive" and criminal groups were in great need of them.
"A lot of pistol has been stolen," he said. "it`s easy to hide, it`s basically lethal weapons, and some criminals are purposely armed into the store and steal."
"they are now in the hands of criminals, and this is the greatest danger."
Fontana said the investigation was "high priority" with the support of the Virginia Anti-gang Crime and illegal weapons Unit.
