Calls for CCTV security grow after two men allegedly stabbed in Carlton

The Carlton community has been rocked by another violent incident, this time resulting in two men being taken to hospital after allegedly being stabbing on November 19. 

Police were called to Little Cardigan Lane just before 4am following reports two men were set upon by a group of attackers.

Victoria Police said a 30-year-old Niddrie man suffered multiple stab wounds to his abdomen while another man, who was yet to be identified, was seriously assaulted.

Both men were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

“Police were quick to arrive on scene however the offenders had fled prior to their arrival,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

“It’s believed many people were in the area at the time and police would like to speak to any witnesses.”

Senior Sergeant Paul Topham said the incident was horrific, and a “terrible, senseless act that could potentially take a life”.

At the time of publishing, Snr Sgt Topham had said police had not been able to speak to either of our victims to establish what relationship was, if any, between them and the offenders “if they’re known at all”.

Witness Chloe Farnsworth told Nine News she heard a commotion with people allegedly yelling “let’s get him, let’s make this even … let’s make it square, fight, fight, fight”.

Businesses owners were shocked by the incident but believed police were doing everything they could to crack down on crime in the area.

“There’s definitely a lot more youth crime around. The police can only do so much, they can’t be everywhere,” Tiamo restaurant’s Fab Succi said.

“I’m not really sure what the answer is, it’s very hard to fix. I think when something happens in Carlton, it’s now another random attack. It’s definitely on our doorstep.”

Paul, a café owner, said while it was pleasing to see police patrolling during dinner and lunch services, he believed a greater presence may be needed after midnight “because it’s happening quite frequently now”.

“It’s not good for the street, it’s not good for anybody,” he said.

“I was shocked to hear it because we left here about 11.30am and then heard about it on the news. At 3.30 in the morning, you’re looking for trouble.”

Carlton Inc. Traders’ Association executive officer Phillip Mansour reiterated calls for the City of Melbourne to install CCTV in the area to improve safety. 

“I think it’s in the best interest of the City of Melbourne. The traders’ association is looking forward to the response in which the City of Melbourne is going to undertake to improve the safety of the precinct,” he said.

“I think it’s the best way to go about it. I know it’s on their agenda to achieve but it’s been lingering for quite some time, and we’ve been requesting it.”

Police have ramped up their presence in the Carlton area in recent months after the community voiced concern of anti-social behaviour and violence.  

Operation Velocita was begun by Victoria Police in July and has seen officers targeting public order, road, and vehicle-related crime on weekends.

Inner City News published a front-page story in June about the community pleading for immediate action on crime, saying “hope isn’t a strategy for us” after a 17-year-old boy was allegedly stabbed outside a gelato shop in Lygon St in May. 

The City of Melbourne said this year that a record $5.4 million would be invested into critical safety infrastructure and resources to improve community safety.

Melbourne Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance in relation to the November stabbing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.au •