Moonee Valley Crime Investigation Unit detectives charged a man in relation to events at a property in Essendon.
Yesterday, investigators arrested an 18-year-old in Cranbourne East as part of the ongoing investigation.
It's alleged a blackmail message was sent via a social media platform on 23 September followed by an ongoing series of extortion incidents related to the same address on Braemar Street in Essendon over the last two months.
The 18-year-old was charged with blackmail and bailed to appear at Melbourne County Court on 3 February 2027.
An 18-year-old Coolaroo man and a 16-year-old boy from the Hume area were charged with arson after two cars were set alight at the Braemar Street address on 25 September.
They were also charged in relation to an arson at factory on Flight Drive, Tullamarine on 28 September.
The 18-year-old was remanded in custody to appear at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on 15 December.
The 16-year-old was remanded to appear at a children's court at a later date.
No one was physically injured during these incidents.
Anyone with information in relation to syndicate crime, blackmail or arson is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
