Stonnington Crime Investigation Unit detectives have released CCTV and images of a man they are wanting to identify as part of their investigation into a suspicious café fire in Armadale earlier this month.
Investigations have revealed that a man forced entry to the rear door of the High Street café on Sunday 17 May about 11.45pm.
Once inside, the man took some time and tried to break into a safe and cash register before he left empty handed about 30 minutes later.
The same offender returned a short time later armed with a gas cylinder and jerry can which was filled with liquid believed to be an accelerant.
Detectives have released CCTV footage which shows the man pour the liquid from the jerry can throughout the café before the accelerant ignites significantly damaging the building.
Police have been told a bang was heard before the fire was discovered about 1am.
No one was injured.
The offender is described as having a sold build, aged in his 30s and has a beard.
Investigators are appealing for anyone with information about the identity of the man or anyone who may have been in the vicinity of the Matilda Café, which is situated between Kooyong and Glenferrie roads, to come forward.
Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
