Four people have been charged after an armed robbery at an automatic teller machine in Norlane, with police recovering a firearm during the investigation.
The incident occurred late Tuesday night when a group allegedly approached a person using an ATM on Princes Highway, producing a weapon and demanding cash. The victim complied, and the offenders fled the scene.
Police were called to the location and launched an immediate investigation. Using CCTV footage and witness statements, detectives identified and arrested four suspects within hours.
Arrests and Charges
A 19-year-old man from Norlane has been charged with armed robbery, theft, and possession of a prohibited firearm. He was remanded in custody to appear at Geelong Magistrates' Court on Thursday.
Two other men, aged 20 and 22, both from Corio, were charged with armed robbery and theft. They were also remanded to appear in court later this week.
A 17-year-old male from Norlane was charged with armed robbery and theft and was bailed to appear at a children's court at a later date.
Firearm Seized
During a search of a property in Norlane, police located and seized a firearm believed to have been used in the robbery. The weapon will undergo forensic testing.
Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Guthrie said the quick arrests demonstrated the effectiveness of police work in the community. “This was a serious offence that could have resulted in injury. We are pleased to have taken this weapon off the streets,” he said.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
