Victoria Police are seeking public assistance to combat the ongoing tobacco wars in the state, as the turf battle shows no signs of stopping.
It has been a year since Lunar Taskforce was formed to address clashes between rival crime syndicates, resulting in over 100 properties and tobacco shops being destroyed.
Despite progress with 85 arrests and 188 property raids, youth gang members and bikies remain involved in arson and extortion. Global syndicate leaders continue to operate from abroad.
“We need to hold them accountable worldwide,” said Lunar Taskforce Detective Inspector Graham Banks.
As the fires continue, the public and government’s assistance is crucial to curbing this criminal activity, especially since Victoria lacks a licensing scheme for tobacco shops.
With time running out for promised reforms, police emphasize the importance of landlords evicting uninsured businesses to prevent further tragedies.