Three young men have been arrested following a series of armed robberies on service stations and convenience stores in the metropolitan area.

Detectives from Altona North Embona charged each of the trio with eight armed robberies, three thefts of motor cars and other associated offences.

An eighteen-year-old Sunshine West man appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court today where he was further remanded until January.

Two boy’s aged 15 and 16, fronted a children’s court where they were also further remanded.

The investigation forms part of a six-month operation which has culminated in charges relating to 51 separate armed robberies across metropolitan Melbourne.

The investigation remains ongoing.