Police have today arrested two men as part of an ongoing investigation into two allegedly deliberately lit factory fires in Melbourne's east, which caused an estimated $25 million in damage.
The arson attacks, believed to be linked, occurred at businesses in Bayswater and Kilsyth late last year and early this year.
Detectives from Knox Crime Investigation Unit with assistance from Eastern Region Crime Squad and Knox SOCIT executed three search warrants this morning across Melbourne's south-east.
• A 39-year-old Dandenong man was arrested following a search warrant in Nar Nar Goon. He was charged with three counts of criminal damage by fire, and three counts of theft of motor vehicle. He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrate Court today.
• A 38-year-old Dandenong North man was arrested following a search warrant in Dandenong North. During the search warrant, police located and seized illicit drugs. He was charged with criminal damage by fire. He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrate Court on 22 July.
A further search warrant was executed in Narre Warren North. During the search warrant, police located weapons, large amount of stolen goods and a stolen truck. Two further people were arrested for matters unrelated to the investigation.
The arrests follow a public appeal for information into the two incidents, where police believe a group of offenders gained access to factories in Bayswater and Kilsyth, poured petrol inside, and deliberately set the buildings alight.
The first incident occurred about 4am on Monday, 23 December 2024, at a business on Melrich Road, Bayswater. The second incident occurred at a separate business on Canterbury Road, Kilsyth about 3am on Wednesday, 1 January 2025,
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Glen Cruse - Investigation and Response Manager - Eastern Region Division Two:
"This morning's arrests are a significant step forward in what has been a complex and extensive investigation."
"We know there are others out there who were involved, and we are closing in. It's only a matter of time before we hold everyone responsible to account."
"We remain committed to identifying and holding all those involved accountable."
"Police continue to appeal for anyone with further information or footage from the areas around the time of the fires to come forward."
