Knox Crime Investigation Unit detectives have arrested a man following an investigation into the alleged kidnapping of a woman and her infant child in May 2024.
The 25-year-old Dandenong man was arrested earlier today after police executed a warrant at an address in Dandenong.
He has been charged with five counts of kidnapping, three counts of armed robbery, aggravated carjacking, attempted armed robbery, handle stolen goods, and possess prohibited weapon. He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court later this afternoon.
The charges relate to an incident on 10 May 2024, where a woman and her young child were allegedly kidnapped from a shopping centre car park in Rowville.
It is alleged the man approached the woman and threatened her with a knife, before forcing her back into the driver's seat of her vehicle.
Police will also allege the man got into the back seat with her child and directed her to drive to multiple electronic stores across Melbourne's southeast.
While the woman purchased Apple MacBooks at several stores, the man allegedly remained in the car with her child.
It's alleged the man then drove the vehicle from a Dandenong store to Robert Booth Reserve in Dandenong, before fleeing along Dandenong Creek trail carrying four MacBooks.
Thankfully, the woman and her child were not physically injured during the ordeal.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Detective Senior Constable Jonathan Minehan, Knox Crime Investigation Unit:
"This was an incredibly traumatic experience for the victim and her young child. The victim and her family have displayed incredible courage throughout this process."
"While these incidents are extremely rare, the emotional trauma they cause can be long-lasting. Our thoughts remain with the family."
"This arrest is the result of tireless work by our detectives and valuable support from the community. We hope it brings some comfort and reassurance to the victim and the community."
