Three teens arrested over alleged arson attacks on Melbourne nightclubs

Three teenagers have been arrested over alleged arson attacks on three separate nightclubs in Melbourne, Australia, earlier this month.

According to ABC, two 18-year-olds and a 17-year-old were arrested in relation to the incidents, and are accused of attacking three clubs in a spree across May 4 and 5.

Targeted clubs include La Di Da nightclub in the Central Business District (CBD), which Victoria Police report was attacked twice, the first at around 4:AM on Monday, May 4.

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The Electric Bar in Prahran was then reportedly attacked around 20 minutes later, when the suspects were accused of ramming a car into the building before pouring accelerant fluids across the venue, which police say failed to catch alight.

During the second attack on La Di Da the following night at around 3:30AM on May 5, one of the alleged offender’s clothing was said to have caught alight.

All three accused teenagers were arrested on Wednesday, May 20, and are believed to be linked to a “youth gang”, ABC reports. They face charges of aggravated burglary, criminal damage by fire, and more.

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It follows a recent string of arson and firebombing attacks across Melbourne’s hospitality industry over the past month, which has resulted in around 15 arrests so far.

Investigations into the motive behind the incidents, which have targeted bars, restaurants, and clubs, are continuing. Police believe the attempted attacks may be linked.

Speaking on the attacks, Acting Superintendent Anthony Vella said: “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.”

[Via ABC]

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Associate Digital Editor