A total of fifteen individuals were arrested in a dramatic police operation targeting two residential unit complexes in South Melbourne. 

Victoria Police officers turned up to the two unit complexes on Park Street and Dorcas Street on Tuesday executing more than 20 warrants.

Officers arrested 15 people from the two buildings, including alleged burglars, car thieves, family violence offenders and arsonists.

South Melbourne police joined forces with officers from St Kilda, the Port Phillip Crime Investigation Unit and the Prahran Divisional Response Unit to carry out the operation, with help from the canine unit.  

Eight men and seven women from South Melbourne, aged between 23 and 59, were charged with various offences.

Among those arrested was a 25-year-old man with an outstanding warrant for car theft, burglary, as well as criminal damage and possessing methylamphetamine.

A 40-year-old woman who was also arrested had outstanding warrants in relation to arson and criminal damage

A 59-year-old man and a 30-year-old woman were arrested for breaching a family violence safety notice and family violence order, respectively. 

South Melbourne Uniform Senior Sergeant Travis Costelow said local residents nearby expressed their gratitude to law enforcement.

“Police arrested a range of people for serious offences, including burglary, car theft, arson and family violence,” he said.

“We want all residents to feel safe in their home and broader surroundings, so we'll have no hesitation in knocking on the doors of those who blatantly flout the law.

“During the operation, we had several residents come up and thank police for being there and listening to their concerns.”