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For the fourth occasion, the Mackay store has fallen victim to an attack, and although the two individuals involved may not appear to be criminal masterminds, law enforcement officials are not dismissing potential connections to organized crime.
Just around midnight on Friday, the duo launched an assault on a tobacconist using Molotov cocktails as their weapons of choice.
Initially, their attempt went awry, as the incendiary devices bounced back without causing any damage.
Their own flannel shirts nearly caught fire before they eventually succeeded in their destructive endeavor.
“He ignited it, leading to a significant flash and explosion,” stated Queensland Police Acting Inspector Chris Easton.
That explosion was seen on CCTV cameras across the road and was heard from kilometres away.
Neighbouring businesses were also caught in the crossfire, with a family-run repair shop ruined and a gym next door left gutted.
“Livelihoods have been, have been ruined if you like,” Eaton said.
“People will have employment loss because of it. So we’re taking it incredibly seriously.
“We know that there were three other similar offences targeted at that particular store over the last four to six weeks.
“We certainly believe that those four offenses are linked.”
While no civilians were injured, police suspect one of the two men responsible was and are calling for help to find the firebombers before the next blaze.
“It’s highly likely that offender sustained burns during the incident,” Eaton said.
“We’re calling for information of members of the public who may know someone who has sustained some serious burns over the last few days.”
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