Police have stepped up patrols in the City of Yarra this week, after more than 30 young people were arrested as part of a major police operation over the past two months targetting what they call "street and youth gangs".

Police say they hope the arrests would "dismantle and disrupt series of offending" in the Collingwood area.

Police have arrested more than 30 people in an operation targeting youth gangs.Credit:Victoria Police

On August 31, police executed arrest warrants in Fitzroy, Cobblebank, Reservoir, Tarneit, Altona North, Footscray West, Kurunjang, North Melbourne, Collingwood, Fitzroy North and Point Cook.

Ten men between the ages of 17 and 20 were arrested and charged with a swathe of offences including armed robbery, handling stolen goods, assault and false imprisonment.

A total or 32 people have been arrested during the operation since it started on July, with 21 having been charged and 11 remanded in custody. A further 12 will be charged on summons.

Police say they have used "covert" intelligence gathering to nab the offenders and this week had mounted officers patrolling the Collinwood area to send a message.

Mounted Victoria Police officers and those from Bike Patrol in Collingwood this week.Credit:Victoria Police

"Our message to those committing these offences is clear, police will find you, we will hold you to account and we will ensure you do not continue to inflict harm on the community," said Superintendent Darren Franks, Melbourne’s Divisional Commander in Melbourne and Yarra.

Making the arrests public was also about drawing out information from the community about crime networks, according to Detective Superintendent Peter Brigham.

"We know these gangs and the associated offenders cause immense harm in our communities and the impact of their offending is felt by victims for a long time," he said.

"Often we find those involved will have committed crimes across different areas of Melbourne, so our role is to help provide broader knowledge of these groups."

He said police from a number of areas across the city were working together to disrupt any street gangs.

"If you are willing to engage in this type of serious and organised crime then you absolutely should expect to be held to account for your actions."

Police are appealing to anyone with information about gang activity to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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