LOCAL cigarette vendors who have concerns about security following a spate of arson attacks at tobacco stores in metropolitan Melbourne and some regional centres have been urged to contact police.
Letters sent on behalf of Victoria Police to landlords in relation to illicit tobacco as part of an investigation into the arson attacks at tobacco stores has highlighted the current risks around businesses engaged in illicit activity and the risk they present.
“This includes the risk to current insurance arrangements as well as the potential for nearby businesses and properties to be adversely impacted by the fires and other criminal activity,” police said in a statement.
Police said two letters were being distributed – one for properties where warrants have been executed and illicit products have been seized, while the second is more general.
“Landlords of properties currently rented to businesses selling tobacco should expect to receive a letter in the next fortnight,” police said this week.
Mildura police Inspector David Rowe said that while illicit tobacco sellers being targeted by arson this has not been an issue in the Mallee “at this time”. However, the region was not immune.
“We have contacted several cigarette vendors across the Mallee to ensure appropriate security measures are in place, including the Swan Hill and Kerang areas,” he said.
“Should local cigarette vendors have any security concerns, they are encouraged to contact their local police to discuss the issues or Crime Stoppers and the information will be relayed to police.
“At this time local police have not been contacting landlords of tobacco retailers.”
