Tobacconist ram raid could be latest gang war attack

Nobody was inside the shop and the driver ran off.

Detectives are probing whether the incident is linked to a string of other arsons believed to be connected to Middle Eastern organised crime groups and outlaw motorcycle gangs fighting over profits derived from the sale of illicit tobacco.

Police believe the syndicates are engaging young people, street gangs and other low-level criminals to carry out the attacks.

Victoria Police's Taskforce Lunar has more than 30 arson investigations, including the firebombing of tobacco stores, vehicles, gyms, restaurants and private addresses.

The taskforce was set up to combat organised crime groups involved in the illicit tobacco trade.