'Number one priority': hunt for carjackers after car taken with kids inside

The two kids, both four years old, were allegedly kicked out of a stolen red Ford Territory around two kilometres from their home in Doreen, Melbourne, just after 6.30am on September 1.

Police have defended the release of two suspects after receiving criticism over a lack of action, saying the alleged carjacking was "subject to continued investigation".

CCTV from a neighbouring home showed a Toyota Yaris driving on a quiet cul-de-sac when two men jumped out and piled into the Ford Territory with two children in the backseat before speeding away.

The distressed mother was seen on CCTV chasing the car down the driveway on Berkshire Street before running inside to report the alleged carjacking.

"They left my street, turned right, and headed towards the main road, and then they ended up two kilometres from home, where they dumped my kids unceremoniously on the side of the road," the car owner told 3AW.

Police said the Toyota Yaris and Ford Territory then collided, sending the Yaris into a ditch.

Two women in the Yaris, a 23-year-old and a 16-year-old, were arrested and interviewed by police before being released pending summons.

The Ford Territory allegedly continued on, and police are searching for the driver and passenger.

Investigators have defended releasing the female suspects after 3AW presenter Jacqui Felgate criticised police for not laying charges.

"This is the line in the sand, and the government has to respond now," she said during a radio broadcast.

Police said, "the number one priority for investigators is to identify and arrest the two males who were involved in this incident".

"While we are still investigating, we do not have any information to suggest the females had knowledge of the fact that the males were attempting to steal another car, or that children were inside that car," police said.

"Until the two males are identified or we receive further information, the most appropriate process at the present time is to proceed by summons. They are expected to be charged with theft of a motor vehicle.

"All of this is subject to continued investigation, and detectives are working extremely hard to locate the two males."

Investigators are still searching for the stolen Ford Territory, police said.

Anyone who witnessed the car theft, has CCTV/dashcam vision or has information as to the whereabouts of the Ford Territory, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.