Shisha lounge and bar goes up in flames in suspicious Melbourne blaze
Another tobacco business has gone up in flames in Melbourne.
While there is yet to be a connection made between the state’s tobacco wars and this latest fire, police will investigate if it has anything to do with the latest underworld wars.
The fire is being treated as suspicious.
Shimmers Bar & Lounge in Cranbourne was destroyed at around 4.30 am on Monday morning. Three glass exterior walls were shattered with glass strewn around the building. The front door also shattered.
"A building surveyor was requested to attend the scene this morning.
Firefighters handed the scene to Victoria Police."
While no one was inside the building at the time, a local cafe worker and fuel station attendant were nearby when the fire erupted.
Petroleum pumps were less than 10 metres from the flames, which could have had a devastating effect on the area.
“They are just so close, and it is so lucky the pumps were completely unharmed,” a petrol station employee said.
“I am just happy no one was injured.”
The café is located at the back of the shisha bar building.
Police are urging any witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Jonathan Jackson, 30th January 2024
