Detectives from Brimbank Embona Taskforce have charged three teenagers following an alleged aggravated burglary and armed robbery overnight.

The first incident took place at a service station in Craigieburn just after midnight when two of the youths allegedly gained entry into the shop area by kicking in the glass entry door.

Once inside the store the youths allegedly stole a till from the counter containing an amount of cash.

A short time later the same offenders are alleged to have stolen cash and cigarettes from a service station on Kings Road, St Albans.

Three youths were later arrested in the Sunshine area with the assistance of the air-wing.

One boy, 16, from Croydon has been charged with eight armed robberies, one count of aggravated burglary and numerous counts of theft of motor vehicle.

A 16-year-old boy from Sunshine West has been charged with one count of armed robbery, one count of aggravated burglary and two counts of theft from motor vehicle.

A third boy, also 16, from Parkville, has been charged with eight counts of armed robbery, one count of aggravated burglary and two counts of theft from motor vehicle.

All three youths have been remanded into custody to appear at a Children’s court at later dates.