'Big Boss' gold dealer facing stolen goods charges

The gold and diamond dealing playboy arrested as part of an investigation into a series of smash-and-grab robberies of jewellery stores in Melbourne has been charged by police.

Colombian-born Alex Mendieta, 31, was yesterday arrested after his Collins St store was raided by Gangs Crime Squad detectives.

Overnight Mendieta was charged with the possession of stolen goods, recklessly possessing stolen goods and handling stolen goods.

He and and two other Colombian nationals aged 31 and 36 were also arrested. They are expected to face court later today.

A Lamborghini was among the items seized after warrants were executed across Melbourne just after 10am on Thursday at the jewellery store and residential properties in the CBD, Southbank and Caulfield North.

Mendieta owns Sell Your Gold Pty Ltd and Diamond On Sale Pty Ltd.

Police allege Mendieta received stolen goods from armed thugs who robbed 33 jewellery stores in the past year.

His penthouse on Roy Street, just off St Kilda Road, was also raided with detectives seizing a number of valuable items that were allegedly stolen or the proceeds of crime.

Mendieta's personal Facebook page says he is the 'Big Boss' at his gold store, and the profile is littered with countless images of him leading a lavish lifestyle.