Victoria Police have launched dual public appeals, releasing closed-circuit television footage in connection with two separate incidents in Melbourne: an unsettling assault on a popular walking trail and a brazen robbery at a Sikh temple.
Search for cyclist after Moonee Ponds Creek trail incident
Authorities are searching for a man who followed and inappropriately touched a woman on a walking trail in Melbourne's north. The incident occurred on the Moonee Ponds Creek trail at Oak Park around 12.30pm on August 26.
According to police, a cyclist rode past the 38-year-old woman before turning around and following her onto Margaret Street. The man then touched her inappropriately and attempted to start a conversation. The woman told him not to touch her, after which he rode away on his bike.
Investigators have now released CCTV footage of a cyclist they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries. The search comes about four months after the alleged assault.
Masked thieves raid Campbellfield temple shrine
In a separate case, police are hunting two masked men who used an angle grinder to break into a Sikh temple in Campbellfield. The robbery took place at the Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Australia on Malcolm Place at approximately 10.30pm on December 29.
The pair cut through a lock to gain entry before heading directly to a shrine inside the temple. There, they removed a donation box and stole around $1500.
Victoria Police have also released CCTV from this incident in a fresh push to identify the culprits. The footage shows the masked individuals during the break-in.
Appeals for public assistance
In both investigations, detectives are urging anyone with information to come forward. The release of CCTV is a key tactic, hoping members of the public might recognise the individuals involved.
These incidents highlight ongoing police efforts to tackle crimes ranging from personal safety offences in public spaces to targeted thefts on community institutions. Authorities continue to follow active leads.
