A 27-year-old Doveton man has been charged over his alleged role in an international vehicle theft syndicate accused of stealing high-end Toyotas and exporting them to the United Arab Emirates for profit.
According to Victoria Police, the charges follow a year-long Vehicle Crime Squad investigation into an alleged operation spanning Victoria and Queensland. Police allege the syndicate began in Victoria before being disrupted and shifting to Queensland in October last year.
Police intelligence suggests the group stole more than 150 vehicles worth more than $20 million from Victoria before another 60 vehicles were allegedly stolen in Queensland. Investigators believe many of the vehicles were stolen by accessing on-board computers through vehicle wiring.
Doveton homes raided as part of investigation
Victoria Police said four search warrants were executed on Thursday 19 March at residential addresses in Doveton and Seaford, including three in Doveton.
The 27-year-old Doveton man was charged with conspiracy to commit theft of motor vehicle, theft of motor vehicle and handle stolen goods in relation to 46 incidents allegedly committed between August and September 2025. He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 26 March.
Police allege Cranbourne West site used as base
Investigators seized three motor vehicles, multiple electronic devices and business and banking records during the raids.
Police will allege the man used a commercial premises in Cranbourne West as a base of operations, where stolen vehicles were loaded into shipping containers before being transported through the Port of Melbourne and sent to the UAE. Victoria Police said the transport companies involved were allegedly unaware of what was inside the containers.
Victoria Police release arrest footage
Victoria Police also released video connected to the arrest as part of the public announcement around the charges. The investigation remains ongoing and additional charges are expected to be laid.
Owners urged to step up vehicle security
Police are urging owners to take extra steps to protect their vehicles, including installing on-board diagnostic port locks.
Victoria Police has also reminded motorists to lock doors and windows, park in well-lit areas where possible, use steering locks and secure keys when not in use.
