Police are investigating a clash between two groups armed with machetes at a Melbourne shopping centre on Friday night.
Some shoppers said they were left terrified by the incident and had to lock themselves inside a store with staff as people clashed with bladed weapons outside.
Victoria Police said the altercation began between the groups in a car park on Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows, about 7:20pm.
The brawl continued inside the Broadmeadows Central shopping centre.
Vision captured by people at the shopping centre not involved in the affray showed several people taking swipes at each other with machetes.
Some shoppers and staff locked themselves inside stores at the shopping centre during the brawl. (Supplied)
Police said the groups fled the scene in a silver Honda and a white Mazda before police arrived at the scene.
It is not clear whether anyone was injured in the incident.
Maggie Younan was shopping at the centre when the brawl happened and said people were “shaken up” by the incident.
“It was honestly terrifying,” she said.
“We were told to lock ourselves inside a store. I was in total shock and called my mum as soon as it happened to let her know I was stuck inside,” she said.
The brawl happened at Broadmeadows Central shopping centre in Melbourne’s north. (ABC News: Danielle Bonica)
The operator of Broadmeadows Central, Vicinity, said the shopping centre was open on Saturday but with increased security.
“We do not tolerate criminal or antisocial behaviour in our centres and are committed to supporting Victoria Police in their investigation,” a Vicinity spokesperson said.
“We understand this has been distressing for our customers and retail teams, and want to thank everyone for their support.
‘Ambiguous’ machete ban confusion
“The safety and wellbeing of our customers, retailers, team members and community is always our highest priority.”
Police have asked anyone who witnessed the brawl to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.
The brawl comes after Victoria’s machete ban came into effect in September.
Victorian Opposition Leader Brad Battin said the incident occurring in a public space was concerning.
“It’s too often now we’re seeing in shopping centres where violent crime is becoming the answer,” he said.
“People are genuinely worried. As a father I like to think I can drop my kids off at the local shopping centre, they can go to the movies or go shopping and be safe.
“I’m starting to question that and I’m not alone. We’re getting message after message of people who are afraid to drop their kids down at the local shopping centre.”