Arson attack investigators probe tobacco shop blaze

Police believed the offenders drove a stolen vehicle into the front window and set the shop alight before fleeing in another vehicle.

No one was injured but the business and a nearby apartment was damaged.

It's being treated as a targeted attack and Taskforce Lunar detectives will look at any possible links to other recent fires, Victoria Police said in a statement.

The taskforce is investigating more than 30 arson attacks believed to be linked to an ongoing conflict between Middle Eastern organised crime groups and outlaw motorcycle gangs over illegal tobacco.

Police have previously said criminals are demanding regular payments from shop owners and ordering lower-level criminals to carry out firebombings.