In a joint operation involving the Echo, Lunar, and VIPER taskforces, as well as the Australian Federal Police, five individuals, including members of the Finks Outlaw Motorcycle Gang (OMCG), were arrested yesterday in connection with a series of arson attacks spanning three weeks. The attacks targeted various locations, including tobacco stores and a café.
The arrested individuals include a 41-year-old Werribee man, believed to be a Finks OMCG member, and a 30-year-old Templestowe man, also a patched member of the gang. Additionally, a 32-year-old Albion man, a 37-year-old Point Cook man, and a 17-year-old from Yarraville were apprehended. The charges range from criminal damage by fire to aggravated carjacking.
The offences, characterized by forced entry into premises before setting them ablaze, prompted the involvement of the Special Operations Group and resulted in charges against the suspects. Taskforce Lunar is currently overseeing 28 active arson investigations, targeting various establishments, including tobacco stores, gyms, and private addresses.
The VIPER Taskforce, operating since October, has executed nearly 70 warrants at tobacco stores across the state, seizing a significant amount of illicit substances, including e-cigarettes, cigarettes, loose-leaf tobacco, cannabis, and cocaine. The operation also led to the confiscation of weapons and industrial tobacco manufacturing equipment.
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Taskforce Lunar investigators believe the recent arson attacks stem from conflict among criminal syndicates competing for profits in the illicit tobacco market. The syndicates, reportedly comprising members of Middle Eastern Organized Crime groups and Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs, are believed to enlist local networks, street gangs, and low-level criminals to carry out the offences.
Detective Inspector Graham Banks of the Lunar Taskforce emphasized that the arrests demonstrate a collaborative effort by state and Commonwealth agencies to address the issue of illicit tobacco. He expressed concern for public safety, highlighting the potential for serious harm or fatalities resulting from the reckless criminal activity.
AFP Detective Inspector Chris Salmon underscored the close collaboration between the AFP and Victoria Police to disrupt organized crime, particularly outlaw motorcycle gangs, to minimize the harm caused by their criminal activities. Authorities urge anyone with information about the incidents or illicit tobacco to contact Crime Stoppers.
