Authorities in Melbourne have apprehended multiple individuals and confiscated firearms, explosives, and other items linked to a Middle Eastern organised crime syndicate. As part of Operation Lunar, eight suspects faced charges for extortion following numerous early morning raids across homes and storage facilities in northern Melbourne.
The accused allegedly coerced tobacco shop owners into paying money, threatening that their establishments would be set ablaze if compliance was not met. Reports suggest that these men instructed shopkeepers to contact an international WhatsApp number, where members of the syndicate demanded monthly payments under the threat of destruction. Disturbingly, if anyone other than the owner made a call to this number, instances of arson were reported.
During the police operation, officers seized four firearms—including two high-powered rifles, a handgun, and a shotgun—as well as three vehicles, handwritten extortion letters, knives, GPS devices, a significant sum of cash, 10 kilograms of loose tobacco, and 6000 vaping devices. These items were discovered at various locations, including Broadmeadows, Donnybrook, Wollert, Epping, and several other suburbs.
Eight individuals, aged between 16 and 26, were arrested and charged with extortion and have been released on bail pending further court appearances. One of the suspects, aged 26, is reportedly a patched member of the Mongols bikie gang, while two others, aged 18 and 19, face court today for similar charges. Moreover, two additional men, aged 22 and 41, were taken into custody for unrelated offences during the raids.
Detective Inspector Graham Banks stated that the arrests linked to serious organised crime stemmed from higher-level syndicate figures based overseas. He reiterated the commitment of Victoria Police to tackle all levels of criminal operations, from those orchestrating the extortions to those executing the violent acts, emphasising a total disregard for community safety.
The investigation continues, and law enforcement encourages anyone with relevant information to reach out to them or contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.