HomeAUMelbourne Restaurant Arson: Suspects Remain Behind Bars After Bail Rejection

Melbourne Restaurant Arson: Suspects Remain Behind Bars After Bail Rejection

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Two individuals have been refused bail following charges related to the suspected firebombing incident at a restaurant in Docklands.

Police allege Barry Hsikia, 22, and a 16-year-old boy who can’t be named for legal reasons smashed through glass doors at the Almina restaurant on Docklands Drive at about 3.30am yesterday.

According to allegations, the pair poured an accelerant inside the establishment, ignited it, and subsequently fled the scene.

The restaurant was set on fire yesterday morning.
The restaurant was set on fire yesterday morning. (Nine)

While the restaurant sustained minimal damage, its glass doors remain covered with boards as a precautionary measure.

The pair allegedly attempted to get into a stolen car but were disturbed by police who were patrolling the area.

The suspects reportedly attempted to escape but were discovered hiding beneath the Bolte Bridge in Ron Barassi Snr Park.

Police arrested the duo along with a third man who was located in a vehicle on Docklands Drive.

It is not known if the fire is linked to several recent attacks on Melbourne hospitality venues.
It is not known if the fire is linked to several recent attacks on Melbourne hospitality venues. (Nine)

Inside the car, police seized jerry cans.

A boy, 16, and a 22-year-old man were each charged with criminal damage by fire, reckless conduct endangering life and burglary.

The boy appeared before a children’s court today and was denied bail.

The 22-year-old man, named by the court as Hsikia, appeared before Melbourne Magistrates Court today and was denied bail.

Police allege Hsikia threw three mobile phones into the Yarra River as he attempted to run from police.

When he was eventually arrested, police said he gave a “no comment” interview.

A third man was released on summons.

The scars from the attack are still seen at the restaurant, with glass doors being smashed in.
The scars from the attack are still seen at the restaurant, with glass doors being smashed in. (Nine)
Police are now investigating whether this attack is linked to a spate of recent firebombings and shootings on Melbourne hospitality venues.

Any motive for the attacks is not known but police believe they are being coordinated by an organised crime syndicate, which is using encrypted apps to recruit people, sometimes children.

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