Detectives from Taskforce Lunar have further charged two children overnight as part of their investigation into a number of incidents linked to the ongoing tobacco dispute.
A 14-year-old Mulgrave boy and a 16-year-old Pakenham girl were both charged with one count of attempted arson.
The duo will appear at a children’s court at a later date.
The charges relate to an attempted arson at a Mill Park restaurant on The Link on Thursday, 27 February about 3.40am.
On 2 March, the 16-year-old Pakenham girl was charged with two counts of criminal damage by fire, conduct endangering life, conduct endangering serious injury and theft of motor vehicle.
The 14-year-old Mulgrave boy was charged with aggravated burglary and theft of motor vehicle.
Those charges relate to an aggravated burglary in Wonga Park between 10pm on Monday 19 and 7am on Tuesday, 20 February, and an arson attack at a tobacconist on Sturt Street in Ballarat around 3.35am on Wednesday, 28 February.
As a result of the linked investigations, eight children have now been arrested by Taskforce Lunar, with a total of six charged.
A 20-year-old St Albans man was charged on Thursday, 29 February in relation to an arson at a reception centre in Thomastown on Thursday, 22 February.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information on any organised crime activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
