Detectives from Taskforce Lunar yesterday arrested two men as part of an investigation into alleged extortions committed on a number of shops in the Altona North area.
On Monday, 10 March, a number of notes were dropped off at different businesses in the area allegedly demanding money on behalf of an offshore organised crime syndicate leader.
This includes a threat allegedly stuck on the window of a liquor store with instructions to 'call Kaz' or the shop would be damaged.
With assistance from the VIPER Taskforce, two search warrants were executed at residential addresses in Roxburgh Park and Craigieburn on Tuesday (22 July).
A 21-year-old Roxburgh Park man was charged with extortion with threat to destroy property, possess cannabis, possess Schedule 4 poison, possess anabolic steroid and theft.
He was bailed to appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates' Court on 22 October.
Police seized what appears to be cannabis, prescription medication, four balaclavas, testosterone and a stolen driver's licence from his address.
A 20-year-old Craigieburn man was released and is expected to be charged on summons.
Anyone with information on serious and organised crime linked to the illicit tobacco trade is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppers.com.au
