Police believe arson attacks on tobacco stores, dating back to March, are part of a mysterious string of targeted fire bombings.
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Detectives are investigating a range of motivations for these fires and links to organised crime syndicates.
Just after 5am on August 30 the arson and explosives squad were called to Hadfield in Melbourne's north for the second time in two days.
They found an unoccupied store on West Street had significant fire damage but no one was injured.
The first fire, which started at around 3.10am on August 29, spread from a blazing car to fruit and vegetable shop on the corner of East and Middle Streets. The two sites are around 1 kilometre from each other.
This comes after police released CCTV footage of two fire bombings in Moonee Ponds that didn't go as planned in May.
Footage of the alleged arson attack shows a suspect arriving at the shop at 3.05am on May 23 and prying open the shuttered roller doors.
But he kicks over one of two Molotov cocktails and accelerant pours into a puddle on the pavement.
He is then seen lighting the full bottle and throwing it inside the shop.
The fire quickly spreads to the pavement but he dodges the flames and climbs in his alleged getaway car only to remember he left his crowbar behind.
The man is seen running through the flames outside the shop to gather his supplies and leave the scene in the waiting dark-coloured Volkswagen sedan.
No one was inside the store when the fire started and the building sustained minor damage, police said.
But three nights later, at 1.35am on May 26, the same crime is allegedly attempted.
Unfortunately, this time the alleged arsonist sets himself on fire while lighting the Molotov cocktail.
He's seen fleeing in a Holden Cruze sedan with cloned plates, police said.
Police are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed these incidents or recognises those involved.
"This is inherently dangerous behaviour and I want to assure the public that police will not tolerate such blatant and dangerous criminal conduct in our communities," Detective Inspector Chris Murray said.
"Arson risks people's lives and their livelihoods."
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
IN OTHER NEWS:
Anna Houlahan
Reach out with news or updates to anna.houlahan@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Reach out with news or updates to anna.houlahan@austcommunitymedia.com.au
