Three teenagers have been arrested over a series of alleged arson attacks targeting Melbourne nightclubs. The trio were taken into custody after allegedly targeting three separate venues, with one of them struck twice, in the early hours of May 4 and 5.
One of the incidents, a fire at the La Di Da nightclub, garnered widespread attention after one offender's clothing caught alight during the attack.
Search warrants were executed in Tarneit and the Wyndham area on Wednesday morning, leading to the arrest of an 18-year-old man from Tarneit. Then, at approximately 10 am, another 18-year-old from Tarneit and a 17-year-old from Wyndham were arrested at a shopping centre in Maribyrnong. Police allege the 17-year-old was armed with a machete at the time of his arrest.
“Today’s results mean we have now arrested someone for every arson attack that has occurred against licensed venues in Melbourne’s CBD, as well as several incidents in the Prahran area,” Acting Superintendent Anthony Vella said.
The three teenagers are being interviewed over four incidents, including a car allegedly ramming into La Di Da nightclub in the CBD on May 4 and then Electric Bar on Chapel Street 20 minutes later. The following morning, La Di Da was allegedly targeted again, with accelerant poured from a jerry can through the venue, causing damage to the front door.
Vella issued a stern warning to potential offenders, emphasising that police attention is relentless. “If you are coming to a venue to commit arson, the chances of you getting caught by police are almost certain,” he said. “If we don’t catch you then and there in the act, it won’t be long until we come knocking on your door.”
He also stressed the inherent danger of such offending. “Fire is unpredictable and dangerous — not only are these people putting innocent community members at risk, but they are putting their own lives in grave danger.”
Police continue to maintain an increased overt and covert presence across entertainment precincts, including additional patrols and visits to licensed venues. Anyone with information is urged to contact police.
