The Victorian government is introducing new legislation to impose life sentences on organized crime figures who recruit children for serious offenses like firebombings. The move aims to combat the increasing use of vulnerable youth by crime syndicates, with new firearms laws also proposed to restrict licenses and strengthen background checks.
The Victorian government is introducing life jail terms for individuals who recruit children to commit serious crimes, such as firebombings and home invasions. New firearms laws will also tighten eligibility and background checks for licenses.
Melbourne police are investigating a series of arson attacks on hospitality businesses, allegedly carried out by teenagers recruited by organized crime. The "hospitality wars" have caused over $1.1m in damage, with police suspecting motives ranging from extortion to drug trafficking, and questioning the lenient sentences for young offenders.
Melbourne pubs and clubs have been targeted in nearly 20 attacks since early April, including drive-by shootings, kidnappings, and arson. Threatening messages from 'The Cartel' have increased fear, with police investigating organized crime syndicates potentially involved in illegal alcohol and drug dealing.
Melbourne is in the grip of a crime wave. But this time it's different and pub and club owners say they are scared as 'The Cartel' issues threats they do not understand.
Melbourne is in the grip of a crime wave. But this time it's different and pub and club owners say they are scared as 'The Cartel' issues threats they do not understand.
