Victoria

Machetes, shotgun used as thieves allegedly target petrol station twice in two hours

Men allegedly armed with machetes and a shotgun attempted to rob the same service station twice in two hours during a series of robberies in Melbourne's southeast and eastern suburbs.

The robbery spree began at the United Energy service station on Heatherton Road, Narre Warren North, at 12.55am on Thursday. Unsuccessful, the robbers then allegedly returned at 3.45am when they robbed the service station.

The men then attempted to rob a newsagency on Centre Way, Mount Waverley, about 4.30am.

Police spotted and arrested all three menĀ on Waverley Road, just east of Blackburn Road, Glen Waverley at 4.45am.

Police then found the dumped weapons in a nearby garden bed of a home.

A vehicle was also located nearby.

The men are in custody and are assisting police.

Anyone who witnessed the armed robberies, or with any information, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.