Police believe a "core group" of repeat offenders are behind a recent spate of home invasions and violent burglaries in Melbourne's west and north-west.

In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a mother and her young son were woken by three masked men who jumped on their bed in their Albion home as the woman's partner slept downstairs

The intruders had prised open a window before jumping on the bed and threatened the mother and child with a knife. They stole two sets of car keys and an iPad, before running off.

Albion resident Edward's partner and child were threatened by three intruders who entered their home with weapons and stole items. Credit:Justin McManus

The thieves also broke into and ransacked the neighbouring townhouse on Anderson Road, Albion, while the residents inside slept – the second break-in at that townhouse in as many weeks.