Michaela Meade
Detectives have issued almost $4000 in fines and shut down an unregistered business following an inspection in Campbellfield last week.
Investigators from the Victoria Police Vehicle Crime Squad conducted a targeted inspection at an automotive wrecking business on Wednesday, March 3 following r information that the business was trading in illegal motor vehicles and automotive parts.
A 48-year-old Doncaster East man who owns the business was issued with two infringements for operating as an unregistered second-hand dealer and paying cash for scrap metal.
Police said officers identified numerous vehicles in various states of disrepair with parts being separated and sold to the public.
Inspections of records found the business was accepting cash for scrap metal in violation of second-hand dealers legislation.
An interim closure notice was issued by police, closing down the business.
The business has also been referred to the local council and the Environment Protection Authority for further investigation.
Anyone with information about operators within the scrap metal and automotive wrecking industries that are profiting from the illegal trade of motor vehicles and automotive parts are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au/.
