Locals and business owners are begging for help following a string of violent encounters on a popular Melbourne street.
Anti-social behaviour towards locals has spiked on Fitzroy Street in St Kilda.
CCTV footage obtained by 9News shows locals being subjected to physical violence including items being thrown, screaming and a man being punched in the head.
A number of the encounters have involved members of the homeless population in the area, locals claim.
Charlotte Frajman, who owns Caremore Pharmacy, says the incidents are losing her business at least one long-term customer per week.
“It’s just out of control,” she said.
“It’s not like we don’t have a heart – we have the biggest heart – but on the other hand, we’re watching our whole business be destroyed.
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“We can’t afford to. This is our superannuation.”
Police say the situation is difficult to navigate and the key is trying to encourage those affected to enter rehabilitation programs and shelters.
“Without their consent, it makes introducing those people into those environments and facilities and opportunities difficult but it doesn’t mean we stop trying,” Inspector Jim Lappin said.
“The appearance there might be that we can just move on anyone but we have to manage human rights as well.”
Port Phillip Council Deputy Mayor Andrew Bond said while it’s “not great” the public is having these encounters, he maintained it’s “not a crime to be homeless” and noted the city does not have move-on powers.
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