Robbery, attempted murder charges from pre-dawn raids

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By MELISSA MEEHAN

YARRA Ranges Crime Investigation Unit detectives have have charged a Wantirna man with attempted murder and armed robbery following a serious assault in Yellingbo in February.
The assault rocked the area, with many asking questions about why and how it happened.
Detectives supported by Eastern Region Division Two investigations and response units arrested five people and executed five pre-dawn search warrants this morning in Wantirna, Bayswater, Ferntree Gully, Rowville and The Patch concluding Operation Cruso.
Four men and a woman were arrested in relation to the alleged assault which is believed to have occurred on Macclesfield Road on 4 February just after 6pm.
A 51-year-old Warburton man was found seriously injured on the side of the road after he went to the aid of a female acquaintance whose vehicle was broken down. Police say he is still needing medical treatment and his life may never be the same again.
It is expected the 28-year-old Wantirna man will face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court this afternoon.
A 53-year-old man from The Patch, a 25-year-old Wantirna woman and two 21-year-old men are currently assisting police with their inquiries.
During the raids police also seized an amount of cash, a number of pills and powder believed to be methamphetamine.
A 31-year-old Menzies Creek man was also arrested last night and has been charged with intentionally causing serious injury, armed robbery and other serious assault charges.
He has been bailed by police to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday 29 April for a filing hearing.
A 37-year-old Warburton woman was also interviewed by police yesterday and is expected to be charged on summons.