Victoria Police have arrested a 20-year-old man believed to be a senior member of an organised crime syndicate as part of Operation Eclipse, a major investigation into Melbourne’s recent wave of arson attacks and violent crimes.
Detectives allege the Essendon man used encrypted messaging apps to recruit teenagers to carry out firebombings, attempted home invasions, kidnappings and other attacks targeting Melbourne’s hospitality venues.
Police say the suspect is linked to an offshore crime figure and describe the arrest as the most significant breakthrough since Operation Eclipse was launched.
Investigators allege he orchestrated an attempted arson at a Southbank venue, a mistaken-identity kidnapping in Malvern, and an attempted aggravated home invasion in Doncaster.
Victoria Police said dismantling the criminal networks directing young offenders remains a top priority, warning that organised crime groups continue to exploit teenagers to carry out violent offences.
Operation Eclipse remains ongoing as detectives continue investigating a series of attacks linked to Melbourne’s escalating organised crime violence, with further arrests expected as inquiries continue.
