Four arrested after attempted theft forced school lock down in Melbourne’s south-east

Families have detailed their fear and frustration after Avila College was forced to go into lockdown after four offenders broke in.

Caller John told 3AW Afternoons he received a text from his daughter saying she loved him and students were hiding under desks.

Press PLAY to hear his experience

Another caller, Jeanette, said Tony no one knows how the offenders got into the school.

“We’re all absolutely terrified, We got messages from my granddaughters telling us they loved us,” she said.

Press PLAY to hear from her + her thoughts on crime in Victoria

Police confirmed in a statement the four offenders were arrested at a train station near the school after failing to steal anything, with the principal of the school, Dr Michelle Cotter, revealing there was a fifth person who broke into the school grounds.

Press PLAY to hear Jacqui Felgate read out Victoria Police’s statement

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