Detectives from Taskforce Lunar are today releasing CCTV and appealing for public information following two extortions of the same shop in the Hume area in 2024.
The first incident occurred at 4.20pm on Sunday, 28 April when three unknown males approached the business.
One male enters the shop, asking a male member of staff if he knows 'Kaz'.
He then hands over a piece of paper with a phone number on it, telling the staff member he must call the number as soon as he leaves the shop.
He is described as Pacific Islander in appearance and approximately 175cm cm tall with a medium build.
At the time, he was wearing a black Trapstar Shooters jumper with the hood pulled up.
The second incident occurred shortly before 6pm on Tuesday, 14 May when two unknown men entered the same shop.
They approached a male member of staff while holding a phone out and telling him their boss wanted to speak to him.
The male voice on the other end demanded to speak to the owner - who was not in the shop at the time - before saying they had two days to 'call Kaz or you will have no shop anymore.'
The two men are described as of African appearance, approximately 185cm tall and with slim builds.
Both made attempts to disguise themselves, with hoods covering their faces.
Nobody was physically injured during either incident.
As a result of these extortions, the victim sold the shop and has moved away from his home address.
Investigators are today releasing CCTV of both incidents in the hope someone may recognise the three males and be able to provide any information on their identity and whereabouts.
Anyone who recognises the males or with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Graham Banks, Taskforce Lunar:
"If there are shop owners out there who have been approached to pay sums of money or who have been threatened in any way, then we urge you to contact police.
"This kind of criminal behaviour is designed to create significant fear through the intimidation of the victims. It is completely unacceptable, and we expect to hold offenders to account for their violence and intimidation.
"We believe a specific syndicate has directed this, and we also believe those who watch the CCTV and listen to the audio will be able to recognise these three males.
"If you do recognise any of the three males, please come forward and speak to police. It can always be done anonymously."
