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Police investigate Yea home invasion and house fire

Alexandra Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a home invasion and house fire at a property on the Melba Hwy in Yea. Photo by Djembe Archibald

Police are investigating a home invasion and house fire in Yea, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, June 23.

Police said it was understood that three unknown offenders, two armed with firearms and one with a machete, arrived at a property on the Melba Hwy and knocked on the door about 1.15am.

The three entered the house and confronted its 68-year-old occupant, from whom they demanded cash and firearms.

The offenders assaulted the male victim when he refused to comply, police said.

Alexandra Crime Investigation Unit detectives were told the offenders dragged the victim out of the house and into the boot of his own vehicle, before heading down the driveway.

The victim got out of the vehicle and was threatened again by one of the offenders, while the other two set the house on fire, police said.

The offenders poured petrol on the victim, then fled the scene in a vehicle.

Police said three firearms were stolen from the property during the incident.

The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and drove to a nearby property to call 000.

Police believe the incident was targeted and do not believe the offenders are known to the victim.

No arrests have been made at this stage. The investigation remains ongoing.

Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or who has information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au