Tobacco turf war firebombings pile up as feud rolls on

More than 100 firebombings have been linked to Victoria's ongoing smoke shop war as the state continues to wait for a tobacco licensing scheme. A specialist Victoria Police task force was set up a year ago to stamp out the dangerous feud. There have since been 105 arson attacks at, or linked to, tobacco stores across Victoria. Most of the stores targeted are believed to sell illegal tobacco and vapes, police say. More than 200 smoke shops suspected of selling the black market tobacco and vapes have been raided, unearthing cash, illicit tobacco and vapes worth more than $37 million. Taskforce Lunar has also arrested 82 people, with many charged with offences including extortion, arson, firearms offences and aggravated burglary. Police say the firebombings are linked to a conflict involving Middle Eastern organised crime groups and outlaw motorcycle gangs. Groups are fighting for control of the lucrative tobacco and vape black market, enlisting youths to carry out fire bombings on rival stores. Police are concerned the arsons on shops in residential areas or part of residential buildings will eventually lead to loss of life. "As arson attacks continue, both in Victoria and interstate, we remain concerned over the safety of the broader community," Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly said. "The likelihood of serious injury or death occurring is both a real possibility and concerning." Victoria became the last Australian state or territory without a tobacco licensing scheme in September. In March, Premier Jacinta Allan announced Victoria would establish a scheme for retailers and wholesale tobacco suppliers. She told reporters on Tuesday her government would keep its promise to introduce the necessary legislation to Victorian parliament before the end of the year. There are four sitting weeks left in 2024.

Tobacco turf war firebombings pile up as feud rolls on

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