Residents in the Melbourne suburb of Manor Lakes are reporting significant safety concerns following a series of disturbances linked to a local property operating as a short-term rental. According to reports from 9News, neighbors claim the property, which appeared on listing platforms roughly a month ago, has become a base for local youth gangs.
The situation escalated on May 30, when residents reported youths fleeing to the property after abandoning a stolen vehicle. Police attended the scene, resulting in the arrest of a 15-year-old boy, who was later released pending summons. Authorities confirmed that another individual, reportedly armed with a knife and machetes, remains at large.
Local residents, including Tejal Deshpande and Pranti Rachamallu, have expressed feeling intimidated, alleging that individuals associated with the property have been scouting the neighborhood for vulnerable homes. Residents report witnessing suspicious activity, including the tampering with power mains to test for occupancy. The incidents have left families in the area hesitant to let their children play outside, citing a persistent atmosphere of fear.