Detectives from Taskforce Lunar have today released CCTV of two men they are looking to identify as part of their investigation into two suspicious fires at a Docklands restaurant last month.
The first fire occurred on 18 November, with emergency services attending after the fire alarms were activated at the New Quay Promenade business about 2.40am.
It’s believed a window was smashed to gain entry and then accelerant was poured inside and set alight.
No one was inside the restaurant at the time, however the business sustained significant smoke and water damage.
About 60 people were also evacuated from the apartments above the premises.
The second fire occurred two days later on 20 November, with emergency services attending shortly after 2am.
It’s believed two men again poured accelerant through the restaurant and set it alight.
The business was completely destroyed during the second fire, however no one was inside at the time.
Residents in the above apartments were again forced to evacuate and luckily no one was injured.
Detectives are treating the fires as suspicious and believe they are linked to an eight month series of arson attacks across Victoria, primarily targeting tobacco stores.
Police are today releasing CCTV of two men seen running from the second fire on 20 November.
Both men are wearing dark coloured clothing, including hooded jumpers, and carrying yellow and red jerry cans.
Investigators are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the fires or who may have further information about those involved.
They would also like to speak to anyone who can provide information as to the identity of the men shown in the CCTV.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Graham Banks, Taskforce Lunar:
“Since this series of arson attacks commenced in March, one of the biggest concerns for police was that one of these fires would directly lead to one or multiple deaths.
“It is only sheer luck on both these occasions that none of the people living in the apartments above this restaurant were killed or their homes completely destroyed.
“These incidents are utterly reckless and show a complete disregard for life or property.
“Taskforce Lunar is investigating these fires and the links to the current ongoing dispute between organised crime syndicates involved in the illicit tobacco trade.
“We know there will be people out there who know who is responsible for these fires, either the lighting them or the commission of the offending, and we urge those people to come forward.
“We are doing everything we can to put a stop to this series before someone is killed, but information from the public is crucial.
“If you do know something, then now is the time to speak up and as always, this can be done anonymously.”
