Detectives from Taskforce Lunar have this morning arrested four children as part of their investigation into a number of incidents linked to the ongoing tobacco dispute.
With assistance from the Gang Crime Squad, the VIPER Taskforce and the Eastern and Southern Metro Regional Crime Squads, warrants were executed simultaneously at 7am at three residential addresses in Springvale, Mulgrave and Pakenham.
Two boys and two girls have now been arrested and will be interviewed by police. They include:
• A 15-year-old Springvale boy,
• A 14-year-old Mulgrave boy,
• A 16-year-old Mulgrave girl, and
• A 16-year-old Pakenham girl.
Investigators will interview the four children in relation to an aggravated burglary in Wonga Park, as well as two arson attacks at a Mill Park restaurant and a tobacconist in Ballarat last week.
A white Isuzu D Max and a silver Ford Ranger were stolen during an aggravated burglary in Wonga Park between 10pm on Monday 19 and 7am on Tuesday, 20 February.
The Ford Ranger was then utilised in an arson attack at a reception centre in Thomastown on Thursday, 22 February.
It was later located burnt out in Bundoora.
A 20-year-old St Albans man was yesterday charged in relation to that incident.
On Tuesday, 27 February about 3.40am, the Isuzu D Max was involved in an attempted arson at a Mill Park restaurant on The Link.
The D Max reverses towards the front door of the premises and a number of offenders exit the vehicle, with one reaching back in to remove a jerry can.
A witness observes the vehicle and runs towards the scene, causing the offenders to flee.
The same vehicle is then used the following day in an arson attack at a tobacconist on Sturt Street in Ballarat about 3.35am.
The store was significantly damaged during the incident.
A short time later, the vehicle was located burnt out on Eureka Street.
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.
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Graham Banks, Taskforce Lunar:
“We’re seeing these syndicates recruit a range of people – including children – to commit incredibly serious and violent offences.
“This remains of significant concern for police, and we will do absolutely everything we can to target those involved in this offending at all levels.
“We’re hopeful that today’s arrests will provide us with further avenues of enquiry in these investigations.”
