Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad are investigating two arson attacks which are believed to be linked and occurred at the same Tullamarine tobacco store overnight and earlier this month.
The first incident occurred around 5am on Tuesday, 22 April.
Local police were patrolling the Tullamarine area when they observed flames coming from the Melrose Drive premises at 5.20am.
The officers were able to contain the fire with extinguishers before fire fighters arrived to completely extinguish the blaze.
Nobody was inside the store at the time but the building sustained significant damage.
The second incident occurred when emergency services were called to reports of a fire at the same Melrose Drive store around 1.20am this morning (Wednesday, 30 April).
It is believed a vehicle was used to impact a roller door, before an accelerant was poured into the shop and set alight.
Nobody was inside at the time, however the store sustained extensive damage.
Investigators believe the incidents are linked.
Anyone who witnessed either incident, has CCTV/dashcam footage or any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Chris Murray, Arson and Explosives Squad:
"This is yet another example of reckless conduct which could have gone horribly wrong, with lives potentially lost.
"The significant risk this poses to the broader community is completely unacceptable.
"While we continue to work with Taskforce Lunar to do absolutely everything we can to target those responsible - the facilitators all the way to those at the top of the syndicates - we need the public's help. If you see anything suspicious, if you have any information, if you know a store is selling illicit tobacco, please come forward and speak to police."
