'Intention to execute': Police release CCTV in hunt for armed home invaders

The three offenders who violently broke into a home in Melbourne's north-west earlier this year had the "sole intention to execute" their intended target, police say.

CCTV footage has been released of the chilling moment the armed offenders forced their way into the property in Term Street in Strathmore about 1.20am on April 29.

Police believe the trio targeted the wrong address in the street and quickly fled the scene in a stolen black Volkswagen Tiguan.

READ MORE: Residents evacuated in Gold Coast siege over gas bottle threats

Police said the home invasion was planned and targeted the property.

"Based on their deliberate actions to enter the address, it's clear they were there to execute the target," Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Simon Pengelly said.

"This was a violent incident which was absolutely terrifying for the residents, who are completely innocent parties in this."

Pengelly said the offenders quickly realised that they were at the wrong home after a short conversation with the 54-year-old victim, before they fled the scene.

The footage released today shows the balaclava-clad intruders approaching the property and moments later one man uses a shotgun to fire through the front door and an axe to break through the windows.

Moments later, two thieves jumped into the home and several shots were fired in the direction of a man inside.

The Volkswagen Tiguan was found burnt out at Donnybrook Road in Woodstock about 2.15am, and a white 2018 Mazda 3 hatch was seen leaving the scene of the car fire and heading towards Epping.

Pengelly said detectives have been in contact with who they believe was the intended target.

"We have provided them with some safety briefings and he has cooperated with police," he said.

"Police are completed numerous armed patrols in the street."

Pengelly labelled the aggravated burglary as one of the most "extreme and violent offences" he had seen.

READ MORE: RBA delivers eighth-straight rate hike to hit 10-year high

"This would have been terrifying for the victim in the house," he said.

"This was a lot more extreme than other firearm violence and they were there to execute." 

The victim has received counselling, Pengelly said.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with information about the three men should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.