A rural property north of Melbourne has burned to the ground during an alleged home invasion and abduction attempt involving burglars armed with guns and a machete.
Police said three offenders arrived at a rural property on the Melba Highway at Yea about 1:15am on Monday.
The 58-year-old victim told investigators that they knocked on his door, demanding money and firearms, then assaulted him when he refused to comply.
He told detectives he was dragged out of the house and forced into the boot of his own vehicle which was then driven down his driveway.
Police remained at the Melba Highway property throughout Monday. (ABC News)
The victims says three armed offenders set fire to his house after he refused to hand over money and guns. (ABC News)
The man says the burglars forced him into the boot of his own car, but he managed to escape. (ABC News)
The incident happened on a rural property on the Melba Highway at Yea. (ABC News
He said he managed to escape but was again threatened by one of the offenders while the other two set his house alight, burning it to the ground.
The offenders also poured petrol onto the victim before fleeing the scene.
Police said three firearms were stolen from the property during the incident.
The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and drove himself to a nearby property where he called triple-0.
The offenders were yet to be found.
Investigation continued, with police urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.