Melbourne Bars Face 21 Arson Attacks Since March, Owners Fearful

Melbourne has seen 21 arson attacks on 14 hospitality venues since late March, a significant increase causing fear in the industry.
By Newsroom | Crime, Melbourne |

CRIME WAVE ENGULFS CITY'S BARS AND RESTAURANTS

Melbourne's hospitality sector is grappling with a persistent and escalating series of arson attacks, with authorities struggling to pinpoint a clear motive or decisive link between the assaults. Reports indicate that at least 21 separate incidents have targeted 14 distinct venues since late March, leaving a trail of damage and palpable fear among business owners.

The pattern of attacks involves firebombings, attempted arson, and even shots fired at premises. Police have noted the use of accelerants and suspicious vehicles observed near businesses shortly before fires ignite. While some earlier firebombings in Melbourne were linked to the illicit tobacco trade, law enforcement officials state there are no clear links connecting these current hospitality attacks to known figures like suspected tobacco kingpin Kaz Hamad.

YOUTH IMPLICATED IN RECENT INCIDENTS

Recent arrests suggest younger individuals may be involved in some of the alleged attacks. Two teenagers were arrested on April 28 following an alleged arson attempt at a Southbank restaurant. This followed an incident on April 17 where two teenagers were apprehended after an arson attack on a licensed venue on Southbank Boulevard, involving machetes and jerry cans.

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Separately, three boys were charged in connection with an attack on Bar Bambi in the CBD, which experienced two separate incidents in under a week. This venue, located in AC/DC Lane, was targeted around 5:00 AM on April 25, following an earlier attempt on April 18 where perpetrators fled before a fire could fully take hold.

FEAR AND UNCERTAINTY GRIP INDUSTRY

The relentless nature of these assaults has stoked significant fear. Publicans express deep concern for safety, with one owner noting, "it is only a matter of time before someone is killed." Threats are also being delivered, with some owners receiving menacing SMS messages. The unpredictable targeting, with businesses having no apparent connections beyond shared ownership in some cases, adds to the disquiet. The orders to firebomb specific locations are reportedly given to individuals who are paid a few hundred dollars, suggesting a potentially contracted element to the acts.

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"The orders come from people they have never met: firebomb this particular address, and you’ll get paid a few hundred dollars."

WIDER IMPACT AND VULNERABILITY

The surge in attacks extends beyond just bars and restaurants, with a home being firebombed overnight, and shots fired at another residence while occupants were inside. This broadens the scope of the threat and highlights a disturbing trend of targeted violence. The lack of a readily identifiable motive leaves owners feeling vulnerable and questioning the safety of their businesses and livelihoods.

  • The list of targeted venues is growing, including well-known establishments such as Bar Bambi, Love Machine, The Emerson, The Albion Hotel, and Soho Restaurant and Bar.

  • Incidents have occurred across various Melbourne suburbs, from the CBD and Southbank to Prahran, South Yarra, and even Keysborough.

BACKGROUND: A CITY UNDER SIEGE?

Melbourne's nightlife and hospitality industry has been subjected to a disturbing pattern of aggression for months. The incidents range from sophisticated firebombings to more crude attempts, leaving a question mark over the underlying causes. While the illicit tobacco trade has been a factor in some past fire-related criminal activity, authorities have yet to draw a conclusive line to the current spate of attacks on licensed venues. The sheer volume and brazenness of these acts are eroding confidence in the city's security and its appeal as a vibrant urban center.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is happening to Melbourne's bars and restaurants?
Melbourne's hospitality venues are facing a wave of arson attacks. Since late March, 21 separate incidents have targeted 14 different businesses, causing damage and fear.
Q: Who is responsible for the arson attacks?
Police have arrested some teenagers in connection with recent incidents, suggesting youth may be involved in some cases. However, a clear motive or link to specific groups has not yet been found.
Q: How are business owners affected by these attacks?
Owners are deeply worried about safety, with some fearing someone could be killed. They are also receiving threatening messages, and the unpredictable nature of the attacks makes them feel vulnerable.
Q: What kind of damage has been caused by the arson?
The attacks involve firebombings and attempted arson, causing significant damage to the targeted venues. Some incidents have also involved shots fired at premises, and a home was firebombed.
Q: Have police found a reason for the attacks?
Authorities are investigating but have not yet found a clear motive or link between the attacks. While some past fires were linked to illegal tobacco sales, there is no confirmed connection to these current incidents.
Q: Which specific venues in Melbourne have been targeted?
Well-known places like Bar Bambi, Love Machine, The Emerson, The Albion Hotel, and Soho Restaurant and Bar are among the targeted venues across various suburbs.