Melbourne hospo venues targeted in organised firebombing campaign
Victoria Police have confirmed at least 15 restaurants, bars and event venues have been struck in a coordinated campaign allegedly involving teenagers paid tens of thousands of dollars to carry out the hits.
Authorities have arrested 12 individuals over a fortnight in connection with a series of alleged arsons, attempted arsons, shootings and kidnappings. The scale and brazenness of the attacks have prompted police to launch a dedicated major investigation — Operation Eclipse — led by Crime and Counter Terrorism Investigation Services.
"The potential for death is real here," head of the investigation, Detective Superintendent Jason Kelly said.
Among the venues caught up in the campaign are some of Melbourne's most recognised hospitality names. Bar Bambi in AC/DC Lane, Soho Bar at Southbank, Chapel Street's Bar Up, and The Emerson Hotel in South Yarra, where a gunman allegedly discharged several rounds into the building before 2am, were all targeted.
The iconic South Yarra bistro France-Soir, Kittens strip club in South Melbourne, and an alcohol distribution facility in Keysborough were also among those hit.
Shots were additionally fired on Lonsdale Street, striking a venue that had already been targeted just three days prior.
Two separate kidnappings are also believed to be connected to the broader campaign.
Police say the majority of those arrested are young men recruited through encrypted messaging platforms and paid to carry out the attacks.
"Majority of them (arrested) are young people, street gang members and the like and have been tasked through encrypted apps," Det Supt Kelly said. "We've seen figures (for payment) … as low as $500 to $1000, up to $20,000."
Two 16-year-old boys were among those charged, facing conspiracy to commit arson allegations after being observed outside Southbank's Left Bank restaurant at around 4am.
Investigators believe the attacks carry the hallmarks of organised crime networks previously linked to illicit tobacco, with intimidation through arson a known tactic.
Det Supt Kelly suggested criminal syndicates may be pivoting into new markets and using the hospitality sector as a battleground.
"Those syndicates that have been involved in the illicit tobacco market are moving into other markets. As we know organised crime doesn't stay still. They're very agile and when they see an opening or an opportunity, they will take that opportunity," he said.
He noted, however, that the root cause of the current attacks remains under examination.
"Unlike the illicit tobacco conflict we've seen over the last couple of years, it requires a deep dive by us in terms of what the root cause or the driver is.”
Police say no lines of inquiry are being dismissed as the investigation intensifies.
"Everything is on the table. We're not ruling anything out.”
Industry operators across Melbourne are being urged to review their security arrangements and report any suspicious activity to police immediately.
Jonathan Jackson, 30th April 2026
