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Journalist's Mom Attacked Amid Gang War Fears
3 Feb
Summary
- Two youths charged following home invasion of journalist's mother.
- Attack occurred days after journalist discussed tobacco wars.
- Police seized 3D-printed handgun and other weapons.
Two youths have been charged by Victoria Police in connection with a home invasion that targeted the mother of independent crime reporter Ryan Naumenko. The alleged attack occurred in Melbourne's north-west shortly after Naumenko detailed his investigations into the city's violent tobacco wars on a podcast. This gang conflict has been ongoing for over two years.
Detectives from the Gang Crime Squad executed search warrants, leading to the arrest of a 17-year-old boy. He faces charges including possession of a handgun and ammunition, drug trafficking, and possessing proceeds of crime. Officers reportedly seized a 3D-printed handgun, a Samurai sword, MDMA, and other items. The teen was later granted bail.
A 20-year-old man from Harkness was also charged with weapons and drug offenses. He too was bailed to appear in court. Naumenko stated he was satisfied with the police investigation and hoped his mother would receive justice. He described the attackers as "cowardly putrid skunks with no morals."
