AFL Premiership medals found almost two years after alleged theft

Police have found AFL Premiership medals allegedly stolen two years ago during a raid in Melbourne's south-east.

The two medals, from 2019 and 2020, were believed to have been taken in an alleged burglary in Malvern on December 18, 2022.

They were found after detectives executed a search warrant at a home on Austin Road in Seaford.

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The AFL has verified the medals were authentic.

It's understood they belonged to Richmond star Shai Bolton, who had his property robbed while he was holidaying interstate.

He had pleaded for them to be returned.

Detective Sergeant Grant Lewis said an investigation is under way as to how the man came into possession of the memorabilia.

"Given the sentimental value attached to these medals, we were extremely pleased to uncover them during our search warrant today," Lewis said.

"We look forward to reuniting the medals with their rightful owner, given the significance winning a flag would hold for both him and his family."

Police also seized house breaking implements, electronic equipment, and clothing.

The discovery was made after an unrelated investigation into 30 burglaries of cafes, bakeries and restaurants across Brighton, Chelsea Heights, Dingley Village, Hampton and Sandringham between July 20 and August 15.

A 36-year-old man has been arrested and charged with 104 offences, including burglary, criminal damage and theft, as well as theft of a motor vehicle.

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He was remanded to appear in Moorabbin Justice Centre this afternoon.

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