Gang attack at St Kilda beat

Police are calling for information following an attempted robbery which ended in serious injury at Alma Park, St Kilda — a popular gay beat.

The incident occurred just after midnight on Monday, January 25 when a 34-year-old man on his way home was attacked by four men.
The gang demanded money and as the victim tried to flee he was knocked to the ground.

One man produced a knife, believed to be a Stanley knife, and the victim was badly slashed on the arm and leg, causing deep lacerations.

After the attack the victim made his way to a service station on the corner of Chapel St and Dandenong Rd for assistance and was later taken to the Alfred Hospital.

Victoria Police Gay and Lesbian Advisory Unit manager Sergeant Scott Davis told Southern Star investigators are looking for more information to uncover the identity of the four men.

“We’re urging anyone who may have seen anything to get in touch, whether it be a description of the men, car registration or their direction of travel,” he said.

Davis said beats are often a target for crime as it’s thought victims are vulnerable and won’t report incidents to the police.
Police believe the group was specifically targeting the beat area as the men were armed with torches and were suspiciously seen in the area 30 minutes before the attack.

The four offenders have been described as in their early 20s, of medium build, and wearing tracksuit pants.

The man with the knife was described as having light-coloured hair. All carried torches and one had a bike.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au or call the Victoria Police Gay and Lesbian Advisory Unit on 9247 5346/6944. Contact can be made anonymously.