Arabic version: إطلاق نار خلال شجار بالسواطير في مركز كريغيبيرن

According to ABC News, police are investigating a shooting and machete incident at Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre in Melbourne’s north after two groups of males allegedly threatened each other on Thursday evening.

The shopping centre was placed into lockdown at about 7:10pm. Police were told both groups were armed with machetes and were arguing when two gunshots were heard.

A witness, Martin, said he was at the centre with his six-year-old son when he saw masked males outside the food outlet where he was sitting. He told ABC Radio’s Evenings with David Astle that a second group arrived, the groups ran towards each other and a shot was heard.

Martin said shoppers fled after the shot and that people inside the food outlet, including women and children, were on the floor. He said he called police and later saw a woman with her four daughters who were too scared to leave.

Victoria Police said the offenders fled as officers arrived. There were no reports of injuries and no evidence suggesting anyone was struck by bullets. Police are searching for the offenders and have urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.