Residents across Geelong's southern suburbs are on high alert as police continue their search for an armed robber who threatened staff with a meat cleaver during two separate incidents on Tuesday evening. The brazen bandit struck first in Grovedale before hitting another business in Whittington just hours later, leaving local business owners concerned and authorities scrambling for leads.
Dual Robberies Shock Local Communities
The crime spree began around 6:40 PM on Tuesday when the offender entered a business on Torquay Road in Grovedale. Armed with a meat cleaver, the suspect threatened staff before making off with cash from the register. The terrifying encounter left employees shaken but physically unharmed.
Less than two hours later, at approximately 8:20 PM, the same individual struck again—this time targeting a business on Boundary Road in Whittington. Witnesses reported seeing a man matching the earlier description brandishing what appeared to be the same weapon during the second robbery.
Police Launch Intensive Investigation
Victoria Police have confirmed they are treating the two incidents as linked and have launched a major investigation to apprehend the dangerous offender. Detective Senior Constable Ben Hargreaves from Geelong Crime Investigation Unit stated that investigators are following several promising lines of inquiry.
The suspect is described as Caucasian in appearance, approximately 175cm tall with a solid build. During both robberies, he wore dark clothing including a black hooded jumper, black pants, and a face covering that concealed his identity from security cameras and witnesses.
Police have been conducting door-to-door inquiries in both areas and are reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding businesses in hopes of identifying the perpetrator or his escape route. Forensic teams have also examined both crime scenes for potential evidence.
Community Urged to Remain Vigilant
Local business owners have expressed concern about the brazen nature of the crimes, particularly the use of such a dangerous weapon in what appear to be premeditated attacks. Many are reviewing their security protocols and encouraging staff to be extra cautious during evening shifts.
Police are urging anyone with information about either incident to come forward immediately. Investigators are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity around Torquay Road in Grovedale or Boundary Road in Whittington between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM on Tuesday evening.
Authorities have also asked local residents to check their home security systems for any footage that might assist the investigation, noting that even minor details could prove crucial in identifying the suspect.
As the hunt continues, Victoria Police have increased patrols in both suburbs and are working closely with local business associations to address community safety concerns. The investigation remains active with multiple units dedicated to tracking down the meat cleaver-wielding bandit before he can strike again.
