Home shooting, firebomb attack as Melbourne bar wars escalate
A firebomb was thrown at the George Hotel in South Melbourne, causing minimal damage, in the latest attack linked to ongoing violence targeting hospitality venues. Another incident occurred at Almina restaurant in Docklands, where a glass door was smashed and a jerry can was found. Police believe the attacks may be connected to organised crime and the illegal trade in tax-free alcohol.
- ▪A Molotov cocktail was thrown at the George Hotel in South Melbourne around 2.30am on Saturday, starting a small fire that caused minimal damage.
- ▪Almina restaurant in Docklands was also targeted, with its glass door smashed and a jerry can left at the scene; the venue had been firebombed previously in December 2023.
- ▪Both incidents are being investigated by Operation Eclipse, a police taskforce looking into a series of at least 25 attacks on Melbourne nightlife venues since February.
- ▪Police have confirmed at least 16 firebombings, shootings, or attempted attacks are linked, along with two abductions related to the hospitality industry.
- ▪Authorities are examining whether the violence is tied to the illicit trade in tax-free alcohol, potentially involving exploitation of a $180 million annual tax break for craft spirit producers.
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