School Children's Tip-Off Sparks Major Police Operation
A major police operation is underway in Sydney's west after a group of school children provided a vital tip-off about four masked men, leading to a dramatic chase and multiple arrests. The incident began around 5:15 pm on Monday on Regina Street in Greystanes, when the children reported seeing the balaclava-clad men near a black Mercedes.
Dramatic Chase and Discovery of Weapons
Police immediately gave chase as the vehicle allegedly sped away, reaching speeds of approximately 80km/h in 50km/h side streets. The pursuit ended when the Mercedes crashed into a parked vehicle on Paton Street in Merrylands West. The four occupants allegedly fled on foot into a nearby park. Two suspects were apprehended quickly, while a significant police presence, including the dog squad and a police helicopter, was deployed to locate a third man.
Inside the abandoned vehicle, which police allege was stolen from Balwyn in Melbourne's east, officers made a disturbing discovery: a loaded shotgun and jerry cans. This find prompted authorities to label the fourth and still-at-large suspect as "armed and dangerous".
Ongoing Manhunt and Serious Charges
Detective Superintendent Simon Glasser stated it is unknown if the fugitive has access to other firearms. He described the wanted man as being of African appearance, aged between 18 and 25, and last seen wearing a black tracksuit with grey shoulders. Glasser believes the group was planning a "serious crime", noting the stolen vehicle from another state indicated a significant level of planning.
The three arrested men, aged 19, 20, and 22, have been charged. The 20-year-old from Penrith faces eight offences, including possessing an unauthorised pistol and not stopping for police. The 19 and 22-year-olds from Woodcroft were charged with six and three offences respectively. The investigation continues with assistance from the State Crime Command’s Raptor Squad.
