Two separate tobacco stores have been set alight across Melbourne overnight, sparking a police investigation.
Emergency services were called to the first fire at Rizzla Plus tobacco store on Paisley Street in Footascray about 2.50am.
Police believe a group of offenders smashed the front window, before throwing a Molotov Cocktail inside.
No one was inside at the time, and the fire caused damage to the shop.
Police believe the offenders fled the scene in a vehicle.
Just hours later, fire crews were called to another shop blaze at Spring Square in Hallam about 5.10am.
The fire was contained within 20 minutes and is being treated as suspicious.
It’s understood a group of offenders also kicked in the back door of the store, before setting it alight.
Police said the offenders fled the scene.
Both fires are being treated as targeted.
