Between April 14 and April 27, a series of 15 arson attacks and shootings targeted hospitality venues throughout Melbourne’s CBD, South Melbourne, and Prahran.
Authorities have connected two kidnappings to these violent incidents as well.
Inspector Kelly highlighted that individuals hired to execute these attacks receive payments ranging from a modest $500 to as high as $20,000.
Detectives are focusing on the illegal alcohol trade following a fire that engulfed a factory in Keysborough on Friday.
“We have received information suggesting that alcohol might be smuggled into the country to evade taxes. While I’m not asserting that this has occurred here, it remains a line of investigation,” Kelly explained.
Investigators are also exploring potential links to Melbourne’s ongoing tobacco conflicts.
“What we can say is the methodology utilised in the illicit tobacco conflict over the last couple of years. which is basically arson as an intimidatory tactic is the link, and the way it’s being tasked,” Kelly said.
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