CCTV footage of what police allege is a 14 year old boy recruited by a criminal organisation to firebomb a tobacconist in Baldivis on December 22.
UPDATE: Shocking new footage has emerged showing a 14-year-old allegedly igniting a fireball outside a convenience store in Perth, linked to a violent turf war over illegal tobacco. The incident, captured by CCTV, highlights the escalating conflict in Western Australia as authorities scramble to address the surge in arson attacks.
The harrowing footage, obtained by the West Australian, shows a slight figure in a drawstring hoodie struggling to carry a large jerrycan filled with fuel. Just before midnight on December 30, the individual can be seen sloshing fuel along the footpath before crouching down to ignite it, resulting in a massive fireball that engulfed the store’s exterior. The figure narrowly escaped catching fire themselves.
Inside the shop, two people were awakened by the blazing inferno and bravely fought the flames with extinguishers while calling emergency services. This brazen attack is believed to be part of a larger scheme orchestrated by an illegal tobacco syndicate attempting to gain control in the region.
During proceedings at the Perth Children’s Court, the teenager, whose identity is protected by law, faced charges of criminal damage by fire. Magistrate Sarah Dewbury denied bail, citing concerns that the boy could be reconnected with the criminal network if released. Prosecutors argued he was “highly likely” to be influenced again due to his age, potentially leading to further violent acts.
Authorities report that this incident is not isolated; a string of similar attacks has occurred across Western Australia in recent months, all connected to the ongoing feud over illegal tobacco trade. Officials state that two men have also been arrested in connection with this incident, believed to have driven the teenager to the scene.
The boy’s defense attorney has vehemently denied his involvement, claiming he received the Gant-branded jumper worn in the footage from a friend shortly before his arrest. However, police maintain that the evidence is compelling.
This case underscores the alarming trend of violence linked to illegal tobacco operations in Australia, raising serious public safety concerns. As the situation develops, the court has scheduled a follow-up hearing next month to review the case.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this incident or similar acts to come forward, as the fight against organized crime intensifies in Western Australia. The implications of this case are profound, not only for the individuals involved but for community safety at large.
For the latest updates on this developing story, stay tuned as we continue to follow this urgent situation.
