Docklands man arrested over alleged extortion incident

A 34-year-old Docklands man is among four men charged over an alleged extortion of an Eltham business owner on June 26.

Detectives from the Echo Taskforce made the arrests after the owner of a convenience store on Main Rd was allegedly threatened by several men before midday.

Victoria Police said early morning searches were conducted with the assistance of VIPER taskforce at five residential addresses in Dallas, Docklands, Wallan, Ascot Vale, and Langwarrin, as well as at a Brunswick East clubhouse.

The VIPER Taskforce is a tactical and investigative unit based within Crime Command focused on preventing, detecting, deterring, disrupting, and dismantling the criminal activities of groups such as outlaw motorcycle gangs, organised crime networks and street gangs.

As a result of the searches, a 34-year-old Docklands man was charged with extortion, possessing a firearm, possession of cocaine and steroids and was served a firearms prohibition order.

In other arrests, a 43-year-old Dallas man was charged with extortion, while a 36-year-old Wallan man was charged with extortion, possess cannabis, and possess GHB.

A 30-year-old Ascot Vale man was also charged with extortion, as well as possessing a firearm, possess proceeds of crime and failing to provide phone access.

The four appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on July 7.

Caption: Echo Taskforce officers outside a Brunswick East clubhouse.