FRANKSTON: Third arrest over $25m fires
A third man has been arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into two allegedly deliberately lit factory fires which caused an estimated $25 million in damage.
The fires, which police believe are linked, occurred at two factories in Bayswater and Kilsyth in December 2024 and January 2025.
The first incident occurred around 4am on Monday, December 23 at a business on Melrich Rd in Bayswater. The second incident took place around 3am on Wednesday, January 1 at a separate business on Canterbury Rd in Kilsyth.
Detectives from Knox Crime Investigation Unit executed a search warrant at a property in Frankston on Thursday (Apr. 17).
A 39-year-old Frankston man was arrested in Dandenong and been charged with two counts of criminal damage by fire, theft of motor vehicle, and handle stolen goods. He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.
His arrest follows the apprehension of two men on Wednesday April 2 as part of the same investigation.
A 39-year-old Dandenong man was arrested following a search warrant executed at a Nar Nar Goon property. He was charged with three counts of criminal damage by fire, and three counts of theft of a motor vehicle. He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on June 20.
A 38-year-old Dandenong North man was also arrested following a warrant executed at his residential address. During the search, police located and seized a quantity of illicit drugs. He was charged with criminal damage by fire and was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on July 22.
The investigation remains ongoing and further arrests have not been ruled out.
Detective Inspector Glen Cruse, Investigation and Response Manager – Eastern Region Division Two, said: “We know there are others connected to these incidents, and we will continue to pursue every lead until everyone is held accountable.”
“If you were involved, we strongly encourage you to come forward now—before we come knocking.”