Police have charged two men following a suspicious fire at a Browns Plains tobacco store that left two people with serious injuries last month.
Around 12.15am on May 30, emergency services were called to a business on Forestglen Crescent after reports the building was engulfed in flames.
Two men were located at the scene suffering from severe burns. The injured men, aged 47 and 54, were transported to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries to their bodies.
It is alleged two offenders entered the premises, poured an accelerant inside, and set it alight.
Following a comprehensive investigation by Logan District Criminal Investigation Branch, with support from the Crime and Intelligence Command, two men were arrested on June 18 at addresses in Ashmore and Ascot.
Detective Acting Inspector Adam Bennett said the arrests were the result of a coordinated and methodical operation.
"This was a deliberate and dangerous act that could have easily resulted in loss of life.
"It's through the dedication of detectives and specialist officers that we've been able to identify and apprehend those responsible.
"Extensive CCTV and forensics analysis were key to progressing this investigation, and today's tactical operation was carefully planned to ensure the safe arrest of both men," Detective Acting Inspector Bennett said.
A 40-year-old Coes Creek man and 41-year-old Ascot man have been charged with one count each of arson – structure or building, arson – motor vehicle-train-aircraft-vessel and unlawful use of motor vehicles aircraft or vessels – use used/intended for indictable offence in the night in company and two counts of acts intended to cause GBH or transmit serious disease.
Both men are due to appear at Beenleigh Magistrates Court today, June 19.
These coordinated arrests formed part of Operation X-Ray Tank, which involved support from specialist units including the Special Emergency Response Team (SERT), MOCS (Drug and Serious Crime Group), Taskforce Maxima, the Specialist Operations Unit, and regional CIB groups.
This investigation also supports Taskforce Masher, a state-wide effort targeting violent crimes and extortion-related offences affecting tobacco stores and similar businesses across Queensland.
"Taskforce Masher is actively working to disrupt criminal networks seeking to profit through violence and fear. Police will continue to target those involved in these serious crimes," Detective Acting Inspector Bennett said.
Investigations are continuing.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
