Dramatic moment IGA staff fight back after reported theft, assault

Dramatic footage has emerged of supermarket staff being attacked and their store trashed by a group of thieves, forcing them to fight back.

Dramatic footage has emerged of alleged thieves attempting to rob an IGA in Deer Park. Picture: 7NEWS

Supermarket staff are calling for better protection after dramatic footage emerged of workers trying to fight off a group of thieves who targeted an IGA in Melbourne's west.

Staff at an IGA in Deer Park allegedly noticed a thief trying to steal a carton a beer at about 7.20pm on New Year’s Eve, according to police.

Dramatic footage has emerged of thieves attempting to steal from an IGA in Deer Park. Picture: 7NEWS

Staff member Muhammad Hassan tried to intervene and chased the alleged thief from the shop, but claims he was soon stopped when a group of about six men – several armed with metal poles – stepped out of a nearby car and approached him.

Police allege a fight quickly ensured, with CCTV footage obtained by 7News showing Mr Hassan being struck across the head several times.

The group allegedly entered the IGA and began destroying products and shelves inside the shop, pulling down racks and stands and leaving items strewn across the floor.

The footage depicts an onlooker watching on as the group made off with alcohol.

Mr Hassan did not require treatment in hospital.

The men were reportedly armed with metal poles. Picture: 7NEWS

The alleged victim’s uncle and owner of the IGA Hitesh Palta claimed it was not the first time the store had been targeted, saying they had since installed CCTV cameras and panic buttons.

Mr Palta said he was “begging” police to help protect retailers trying to make a respectable living.

“(Offenders) will come in this store and think that it’s a free shopping ground for them, they will take whatever they feel like,” he said to 7News.

The store was in tatters after the group fled the scene. Picture: 7NEWS

A Victoria Police spokesperson told NewsWire that officers were actively patrolling the Deer Park community every day and working to keep the public safe.

“We do understand the impact on business owners and workers that are (allegedly) victims of this kind of offending, particularly with the violence involved in this incident,” they said.

“The matter is currently under investigation and we are determined to locate the offenders involved and bring them before the courts.

“Police are continuing to liaise with the victim in this incident to address any concerns they may have.”

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Anyone with information that can assist police with their inquiries is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000