Prominent Melbourne figure Mick Gatto and his wife, Cheryl, have been apprehended at their residence as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption within the construction industry. The arrests were made during a police operation at the couple’s home on the Mornington Peninsula.
Police Operation Unfolds
Detectives executed a search warrant at the property on Wednesday, focusing on what officials described as ‘alleged financial offences.’ A police spokeswoman confirmed that a man and a woman, both in their 70s, were taken into custody and are currently being interviewed. Further details are expected to be released later today, with no charges having been formally laid at this time.
A significant media presence has gathered outside the couple’s Mount Martha home, valued at approximately $3 million, where law enforcement personnel remain engaged in their investigation. Eyewitness accounts suggest Mr. Gatto was taken into custody by detectives the previous night and subsequently returned to his home in a police vehicle alongside his wife.
Taskforce Hawk Investigates Construction Sector
Sources indicate that the operation is linked to the activities of Victoria Police’s Taskforce Hawk, established two years ago specifically to investigate criminal conduct within the construction sector. Investigators have been observed at the scene, reportedly removing numerous boxes from the property. Multiple police vehicles were present throughout the day.
Gatto’s Role in Industry Scrutiny
For many years, Mick Gatto has been a recognized figure involved in mediating disputes within the Victorian construction industry. Earlier this year, a review of the industry and the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union, conducted by Geoffrey Watson SC, characterized Mr. Gatto’s influence as ‘malignant.’ The report alleged he had caused significant damage to the building industry and the Victorian economy, potentially on a permanent basis.
Mr. Gatto has consistently denied any wrongdoing, asserting his adherence to the law and stating his role was solely as an intermediary between construction companies and labor unions. At the time of the report’s release, he expressed his refusal to be made a scapegoat for broader industry issues.
