The Mackay store has faced its fourth incident of targeting, and although the duo involved didn’t seem like seasoned criminals, authorities are considering potential connections to organized crime.
Late Friday night, two individuals launched an attack on a tobacco shop, equipped with Molotov cocktails.
Their initial efforts fell short, as the incendiary devices bounced back.
This near mishap almost resulted in the men igniting their own flannel clothing before they finally succeeded in their attempt.
“He ignited the device, leading to a large flash and explosion,” reported Queensland Police Acting Inspector Chris Easton.
The explosion, captured on CCTV from across the street, echoed through the area and was audible from several kilometers away.
Neighbouring businesses were also caught in the crossfire, with a family-run repair shop ruined and a gym next door left gutted.
“Livelihoods have been, have been ruined if you like,” Eaton said.
“People will have employment loss because of it. So we’re taking it incredibly seriously.
“We know that there were three other similar offences targeted at that particular store over the last four to six weeks.
“We certainly believe that those four offenses are linked.”
While no civilians were injured, police suspect one of the two men responsible was and are calling for help to find the firebombers before the next blaze.
“It’s highly likely that offender sustained burns during the incident,” Eaton said.
“We’re calling for information of members of the public who may know someone who has sustained some serious burns over the last few days.”
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