Arson Attacks in Melbourne Nightlife Spots Lead to Three Arrests
Three individuals have been taken into custody following a series of alleged arson attacks targeting Melbourne’s nightlife spots. The suspects include two 18-year-old men and a 17-year-old boy, who are accused of attacking three different venues, including La Di Da nightclub in the Central Business District (CBD) and Electric Bar in Prahran.
According to police reports, the incidents began at around 4am on May 4, when a car rammed into the roller doors of an industrial property. A male then entered the warehouse with a jerry can, which is believed to be a container used for carrying flammable liquids. About an hour and 20 minutes later, another vehicle was seen near La Di Da, where it attempted to ram the venue’s door.
Twenty minutes after that, police claim a car approached Electric Bar, and two males exited the vehicle and poured accelerant inside the venue. However, the accelerant did not ignite, according to investigators.
The alleged attacks continued the next night, on May 5, when the trio returned to La Di Da around 3.30am. They damaged the front door and poured accelerant throughout the venue. During this incident, one of the 18-year-olds set himself on fire, according to police.
An 18-year-old from Tarneit was arrested on Wednesday morning by officers, while the other 18-year-old and the 17-year-old were taken into custody at a shopping centre in Maribyrnong. At the time of his arrest, the 17-year-old was found carrying a machete.
The three suspects are currently being interviewed in relation to the alleged arsons. All three are known to the police and are believed to be connected to a youth gang. The arrests are part of a larger investigation into a series of arson attacks across Melbourne’s hospitality venues in recent months.
A Victoria Police operation called Operation Eclipse was launched in April to address multiple arson attempts at venues, which police believe were “likely linked.” So far, at least 40 people have been charged over the attacks, with some offenders reportedly paid as little as $500 to commit an arson attack.
CBD Acting Superintendent Anthony Vella stated that police have now accounted for all the arson attacks in the city’s CBD in recent months. He emphasized that:
“Today’s results mean we have now arrested someone for every arson attack that has occurred against licensed venues in Melbourne’s CBD, as well as several incidents in the Prahran area. If you are coming to a venue to commit arson, the chances of you getting caught by police are almost certain.”
Vella also mentioned that police are still searching for “about a dozen offenders” who remain at large.
Key Details of the Incidents
- Date and Time: The first incident occurred at 4am on May 4.
- Locations: La Di Da nightclub (CBD), Electric Bar (Prahran).
- Actions Taken: Vehicles ramming doors, pouring accelerant, and one suspect setting himself on fire.
- Arrests: Two 18-year-olds and a 17-year-old.
- Weapons Found: A machete was discovered on the 17-year-old during his arrest.
- Gang Connection: All three suspects are known to the police and linked to a youth gang.
Ongoing Investigation
Despite the recent arrests, police continue their efforts to identify and apprehend the remaining offenders. Operation Eclipse remains active, with authorities working closely with local communities to prevent further incidents.
The case highlights the growing concern over arson attacks in Melbourne’s hospitality sector and the need for increased security measures. Authorities are urging anyone with information about these incidents to come forward and assist in bringing all perpetrators to justice.
