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 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.
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.
