MORE than 100 teenagers allegedly stormed Mordialloc Woolworths yesterday afternoon, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake shortly before taking part in a brawl at Mordialloc Pier.
Police were called out to the supermarket just after 3pm on 17 December. They arrived and found that the group of teenagers had left and headed towards the pier.
Victoria Police said that the teenagers were involved in a brawl on the foreshore. Police officers were allegedly targeted with bottles when they attempted to disperse the crowd.
Victoria Police’s public order response team was then deployed to the scene. Police used OC spray, and most of the teenagers soon left.
Police arrested one teenage boy, a 15-year-old from Greater Dandenong. In a statement, Victoria Police said he was interviewed and “has since been released pending further enquiries.”
Three other people were spoken to at the scene by police and released. Police did not receive any reports of injuries or weapons.
The incident was widely shared on social media, prompting shock and condemnation. The following day, Mordialloc MP Tim Richardson said “the behaviours yesterday were appalling and shameful.”
“What we saw at Mordialloc Woolworths was disgraceful, entitled and dangerous behaviours. All in full view and easily identifiable as well. I am sure there will be many parents who were ashamed and disappointed at the conduct of their kids,” Richardson said. “It was utterly atrocious the fear they created for retail workers and local businesses. Everyone deserves to be safe at every moment in their place of work.
“Mordialloc is one of the best places in Victoria to come and have fun with friends and family, to enjoy the beautiful beaches, inclusive communities and wonderful local businesses. We want the hundreds of thousands that come to the patch across the year to create memories, be respectful and be safe. It is what Mordialloc has always been – a beautiful gathering place.”
From 18 December, Victoria Police dedicated more uniform police to Mordialloc and the surrounding areas.
The police investigation is ongoing – investigators are looking into whether the incident was pre-planned on social media. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au