Victoria Police are currently dealing with a surge in criminal activities, with dozens of firebombings and other targeted incidents being connected in an alarming crime wave.
Chief Commissioner Mike Bush revealed that the wave of crimes affecting businesses includes firebombings, arson, home invasions, kidnappings, and shootings.
He confirmed that 34 incidents have been linked together since April 9.
“We’ve seen a significant increase, and we’re addressing it through Operation Eclipse,” Bush stated.
“It’s crucial for us to stay ahead of these crimes to ensure the safety of Victoria’s residents.
“Our goal is to uncover the true motives driving these criminal activities,” he added.
“There are a number of theories and at the moment they remain theories, although we have a body of evidence that might take us in a particular direction.”
The illicit alcohol trade has been mentioned as a possible motive.
There are also theories the group orchestrating the attacks is from overseas, potentially Iraq.
Police are asking the community to go about their business as normal and for businesses to route their CCTV back to police through the City of Melbourne.
Police have arrested 35 people and about 145 charges have been laid so far.
Bush said police had not determined whether the incident was linked.
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