Dozens of arson attacks on tobacco stores, including at least six in Geelong and Wyndham, will be investigated by a specially-created police taskforce.
There have been 27 incidents in the last 12 months – the latest coming just hours after police announced the formation of Taskforce Lunar.
The team of dedicated officers examine the growing number of attacks on tobacconists across Victoria, and any potential links with organised crime.
Less than 24 hours after the announcement a tobacco retailer at Glenroy, in Melbourne’s north, was firebombed.
Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly said police believe all of th eincidents are connected.
“Any tobacco store in Victoria at the moment should be on alert to current issues. The fact we’ve had 27 arsons in six months would suggest that they should be alert,” det supt Kelly said.
The spate of arson attacks over the last 12 months stretches from Springvale in Melbourne’s outer-east, through the city’s north and west and out to Hoppers Crossing.
Regional areas including Geelong, Ballarat, Wodonga and Wangaratta have also been targeted.
