Suspected Arson at Chery Dealership Linked to Melbourne Crime Wave

Early on the morning of May 6, 2026, a Chery car dealership in Port Melbourne, Victoria, was the site of a suspected arson. Two men allegedly forced entry into the showroom on Plummer Street at approximately 4:40 AM and set a vehicle inside on fire before fleeing.

Fire Rescue Victoria received the call at 4:50 AM and deployed approximately 30 firefighters, including an aerial unit, to the scene. They had extinguished the blaze by 5:23 AM. The showroom was filled with smoke, and damage was primarily smoke-related. No injuries were reported.

The dealership had recently opened and is owned by businessman James Susler. Manager Victor Sargin reported that no threats had been received prior to the incident.

"No threats were received prior to the incident." — Victor Sargin, Dealership Manager

Broader Investigation and Task Force

Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush held a press conference to address a series of firebombings, kidnappings, and shootings across Melbourne. He stated that the number of crimes against the hospitality and adult entertainment sector has reached 34. A specialist task force, Operation Eclipse, has been established to investigate these attacks, which police believe are orchestrated by organized crime groups hiring youths.

Police have arrested 35 people, many of whom are youths, but have not identified the organized crime leaders alleged to be behind the operations. Motives under investigation include extortion, links to the illegal alcohol or drug trade, and an attempt to take over licensed venue security.

"There is no need for residents to change their social activities, but we advise vigilance." — Chief Commissioner Mike Bush

Chief Commissioner Bush stated that there is no need for residents to change their social activities but advised vigilance. The fire at the Chery dealership in Port Melbourne is under investigation for a possible link to this series of attacks.

Additional Incidents Under Investigation

Police are also investigating two other recent fires deemed suspicious.

Richmond

Three offenders allegedly broke into a luxury car dealership in Richmond around 11:20 PM. They are reported to have used an accelerant to start a fire before fleeing in a vehicle. Two cleaners who were inside the building at the time were not injured. Fire Rescue Victoria responded within three minutes and contained the blaze. Police observed a pair of partly burned shoes at the scene.

Braybrook

Approximately three masked offenders are reported to have set two vehicles on fire on Royal Road in Braybrook around 3:10 AM on Sunday. The fire spread from the vehicles to a nearby townhouse. Both vehicles were destroyed, and the townhouse sustained minor damage. Two people were inside the home at the time; no injuries were reported. A crime scene has been established.

Appeal for Information

Police have asked anyone with information, or CCTV or dashcam footage related to any of the incidents, to contact Crime Stoppers:

• Phone: 1800 333 000
• Website: www.crimestoppersvic.com.au