Detectives from Taskforce Lunar are investigating following two incidents at tobacco stores in Bakery Hill and Ballarat this morning.
Emergency services were first called to reports of a fire at a tobacco store at the intersection of Little Bridge Street and Peel Street in Bakery Hill about 6.15am.
Nobody was physically injured during the incident, but the business and two adjacent buildings were completely destroyed in the blaze.
Shortly after, police were called to a ram raid of a nearby tobacco store on Curtis Street in Ballarat.
It appears a vehicle was reversed into the front entrance of the store before the driver fled without gaining entry.
Two vehicles were subsequently located burnt out in Queen Street South, Ballarat and Scott Parade in Ballarat East.
At this early stage, police believed the incidents are linked.
Investigators are treating the fire as a targeted attack and will look at any possible links to other recent fires.
Police are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the fire or the ram raid or who may have CCTV or dash-cam footage.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
