Australian comedy group Sooshi Mango has called on the Victorian government to get on top of crime as police investigate an alleged break-in at the trio’s Melbourne office.
Australian comedy group Sooshi Mango has urged the Victorian government to enhance crime legislation following an alleged break-in at their Melbourne office. The incident occurred on October 15, 2025, around 19:00, when a man reportedly forced entry into their workplace on Drummond Street in Carlton, causing damage to the door.
The trio, consisting of brothers Carlo and Joe Salanitri, along with Andrew Manfre, shared a CCTV clip of the break-in with their millions of social media followers. They are seeking assistance in identifying the suspect, emphasizing the importance of community support in addressing such crimes.
Carlo Salanitri stated, “We just thought we’d do our part to get this guy off the streets however we thought we could.” He noted that while their platform allowed them to amplify their message, many small businesses lack such visibility. The comedians expressed their concern about safety, stating, “We’re Italians, we don’t hide our cash anywhere that’s obvious,” indicating that nothing appears to have been stolen.
Crime Concerns in Victoria
The call for stricter laws comes amid growing concerns about crime rates in Victoria. According to recent statistics, there has been a noticeable increase in criminal activities, prompting Sussan Ley, the Federal Opposition Leader, to label Melbourne the “crime capital of Australia.” The sentiments expressed by Sooshi Mango resonate with many residents who feel increasingly unsafe.
In their video addressing the issue, the group criticized the perceived boldness of criminals, stating, “These rats think they can go around stealing … and get away with it.” They suggested that stronger laws might deter such actions, with Joe Salanitri asserting that “people are feeling a bit unsafe.” Manfre added, “We’re a little disturbed,” echoing the need for more robust legal measures to combat rising crime.
The comedians believe that harsher penalties are essential. “I think we need to get on top of it. (Crime is) obviously out of control,” Manfre stated. Their passionate plea reflects broader community sentiments regarding safety and the effectiveness of current crime legislation.
Government Response
In response to the rising crime concerns, Ben Carroll, the Victorian Deputy Premier, emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing public safety. He noted that the state is investing in police resources and has implemented reforms related to bail and knife crime. “We want to have a zero-tolerance approach to crime,” Carroll stated, recognizing that more work is needed to ensure all Victorians feel secure.
Carroll’s office confirmed that police are actively investigating the break-in, though no arrests have been made at this time. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in resolving the case. Individuals with knowledge about the incident are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers.
Sooshi Mango gained fame through viral social media content that humorously depicts the experiences of growing up in an Italian family. Their recent call to action not only highlights their commitment to community safety but also amplifies the urgent need for legislative reform in the face of rising crime.
