Tobacco stores on hitlist

Victoria Police is working with councils - including Baw Baw and Cardinia - in an innovative way of targeting tobacco store arson attacks.
The latest initiative will see councils across the state distribute letters to landlords on behalf of Victoria Police.
"Not only does this criminal behaviour put neighbouring businesses and innocent members of the community at risk, it may impact any potential insurance pay out to the building owner," Victoria Police crime command acting commander Jason Kelly said. "Those owners need to be aware of this and be aware of who is leasing the buildings they own."
Police also are issuing a call for store owners, staff, other shop owners and community members to come forward with information.
Whilst many of the arson attacks have been in the metropolitan area, stores in the Ballarat area had been targeted as well as a tobacco store in Moe on Christmas Day last year.
Despite Victoria Police confirming both Baw Baw and Cardinia were amongst councils working with police to distribute the letters, Baw Baw Shire stated it had not sent out letters.
"Baw Baw Shire Council does not distribute letters on behalf of another organisation," planning and development director Luke Connell said. "This is a matter for Victoria Police."
Mr Connell confirmed council had been in contact with police regarding the operation and would "provide them with any information they may require as part of their investigative work."
Two letters were being sent by councils on behalf of Victoria Police across metropolitan and regional areas.
One letter is for properties where warrants have been executed and illicit products have been seized. The second is more general in nature.
Landlords of properties currently rented to businesses selling tobacco should expect to receive a letter in the next fortnight, police said.
"We've always been clear that police alone cannot solve these issues around organised crime and illicit tobacco," acting commander Kelly said.
"More than ever, assistance and information from store owners, staff, other shop owners and members of the community is crucial. The intelligence they can provide may be crucial in preventing an arson attack or holding those involved in serious criminality to account."
Acknowledging the series had been running for 15 months, he said a more innovative way of targeting the issue was required. One way is speaking to those who own property and lease it to people actively engaging in organised crime.
He encouraged anyone with information to speak to police or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au