A chain of aged care facilities has increased its security across the country, after shots were fired at one of its residences in Melbourne’s inner north-west last week.
Police were called to Arcare Aged Care on Hampstead Road in Maidstone just before 4:30am last Friday, after two males dressed in black were seen exiting a white SUV.
Police said approximately 10 shots were fired, with one bullet hitting the building, before the pair fled the scene in the vehicle.
Nobody was physically injured.
Arcare has increased security at its Victorian and interstate sites. (Supplied)
In a letter sent to residents and families, Arcare said was working closely with Victoria Police as the shooting was investigated.
“Arcare has taken proactive steps to increase security at our Victorian and interstate site,” it said.
“Victoria Police also increased surveillance and patrols since the incident.“
Arcare said it had increased wellbeing support for its residents, visitors and team members.
The company operates over 60 aged care facilities around Australia, in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, the ACT and South Australia.
Victoria Police confirmed members from Operation Phoenix, which targets arson attacks and extortion linked to organised crime gangs, were patrolling relevant areas.
Police were called to Arcare Aged Care in Maidstone last Friday. (Supplied)
Victorian government minister Anthony Carbines said measures had been put in place to ensure residents were not put in danger while the investigation continued.
“Victoria Police are taking every measure to ensure that aged care residents are safe,” he told the ABC.
“We also know that Department of Health officials are providing support and services to those aged care facilities, to make sure that lines of communication are open and that supports are provided.”
The investigation into the incident and its potential links to other incidents remains ongoing.
Source: www.abc.net.au
