BREAKING: Teen Charged Over Victoria Firebombings as Investigators Follow a Startling Lead They Were Never Expecting
A teenager has been arrested over a string of alleged extortion threats targeting Victorian businesses, as police crack down on overseas crime syndicates behind a wave of tobacco shop firebombings.
The 17-year-old boy from Melbourne’s Moonee Valley has been charged after detectives alleged he delivered handwritten and typed letters of demand to 19 businesses across the state.
Teen charged over alleged extortion notes linked to Victoria tobacconist firebombings. 9News
The notes allegedly warned business owners to “call the commission” – a reference police believe is linked to an overseas cartel accused of orchestrating an extortion campaign against tobacconists.
Police have charged the teenager with multiple drug trafficking and drug possession offences, possessing counterfeit money and failing to assist police.
During searches of his home, investigators allegedly seized eight mobile phones, a number of SIM cards, drugs and cash.
Local business owner Hung Vo said the arrest came as little surprise.
“Honestly, I’m not surprised. With everything going on, it just seems normal… but this kid is just a little foot soldier.”
Police say businesses that refused to comply with the demands risked having their premises set alight.
That alleged threat became reality for one Richmond tobacconist on Victoria Street last month, where a fire tore through the premises and caused extensive damage to nine neighbouring businesses.
The notes allegedly warned business owners to “call the commission”. 9News
Many remain closed as owners continue to recover.
Vo said business owners had heard rumours that payments were allegedly being demanded.
“Rumours were that they were after some sort of commission, some sort of money, I don’t know the exact amount, but I think it was like in the thousands of dollars every month.”
The attacks have reignited debate over youth crime laws.
Local business owner Angelo Salerno said tougher penalties should be considered.
“I know that Queensland’s changed their laws, adult crime, adult time, and I think it would be a really good idea if we considered that in this state.”
Victoria Street Business Association representative Ha Nguyen said affected traders still needed financial support.
“Ask the government for the grant to help out with these businesses so they can move on with their life.”
9News has also been told those carrying out alleged arson attacks have adopted increasingly brazen tactics, including making fake Triple Zero calls to send firefighters to the wrong location and delay emergency crews reaching the actual blaze.
The investigation continues as authorities pursue those believed to be directing the extortion campaign from overseas.
Crime figure Kazem Hamad, who is accused of orchestrating some of the attacks, has already been sentenced to life imprisonment.
Vo said distance should not protect those responsible.
“Just because they’re overseas, I don’t think it means that they’re untouchable.”
