Taskforce Hawk detectives believe two suspicious fires from earlier this year – one in Maribrynong and another in Derrimut – are linked and connected to corrupt activity within the building industry.
The first fire occurred outside a residential property on Scenic Drive, Maribyrnong on April 6 where two vehicles at the address were set alight shortly after 1.30am.
The CCTV shows two offenders dousing the vehicles in accelerant before setting them alight.
The residence was not damaged and the family inside the address was not physically injured.
The second fire occurred at a factory in Derrimut on May 27.
Emergency services were called to the Calarco Drive business about 5.35am after a member of the public spotted the building fire.
It’s believed offenders forced entry into an office area, spread accelerant throughout, then set the building alight before leaving the area in a silver Lexus SUV.
Police are looking at the possibility the two fires may also be linked to further incidents.
Taskforce Hawk detective acting inspector Ross Mitchell said while police aren’t certain of the motivation behind the fires, similar past crimes within the building sector suggest criminals used the incidents to send a message.
“It just seems to be the crime of choice in relation to dealing with corruption or criminality in this sector because it has such a severe impact and it causes such fear,” Acting Inspector Mitchell said.
He said criminal activity within the building industry was a national issue and “definitely greater than the union.”
Detectives are keen to speak to anyone with information about the fires, including who may be involved and why.
Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Taskforce Hawk was established last year to specifically target criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry.
