Source : Perth Now news
A popular Melbourne animal farm was forced to close temporarily after offenders arrived on e-bikes, stole tools and used a tractor to damage its cafe.
Victorian Police have released CCTV footage in an attempt to identify a group of offenders who broke into Bundoora Park Farm in the early hours of Sunday using a stolen tractor to cause havoc.
In the footage, a tractor can be seen slamming into two glass doors at the front of the empty cafe.
The tractor then pulls back before driving forward again, as a shadowy figure can be seen moving next to the vehicle near the broken door.
Investigators said the offenders arrived on e-bikes to the business on Plenty Rd, on the outskirts of Melbourne, about 12.15am where they cut into fences to gain entry.
They then allegedly broke into multiple sheds and stole garden tools before taking the tractor and ramming the front doors of the onsite cafe.
Police claimed the group fled – leaving the tractor behind and its engine still running – when spooked by an alarm.
They urged anyone driving in the area just before and after the alleged burglary with dashcam footage to come forward.
Bundoora Park Farms management told followers on social media the popular animal farm and cafe was forced to close for two days directly after the incident due to “unforeseen circumstances and significant vandalism”, confirming the farm animals were “safe and well”.
The park reopened on September 22 but was unable to run farm rides at usual capacity.
Anyone witnesses to the incident, or anyone with vision or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
