expert on recent alleged arson attacks

Forensic behavioral scientist Dr. Lauren Ducat from Swinburne University of Technology says that while there is no clear motive behind the alleged attacks, arson is an “effective weapon” for intimidation.

“It’s fast, destructive and very visible,” she explained.

‘It sends a message, creates fear and can quickly close businesses.

“If offenders see similar tactics succeed elsewhere, that behavior can be replicated.”

She added that the recent alleged attacks would seriously erode the confidence of business owners across the state.

“When motives are unclear, there is a sense of unpredictability about behavior and uncertainty about how companies should be protected,” Ducat said.

“That can erode the confidence of owners, staff and customers alike.”

Ducat added that arson cases are difficult to prosecute because “evidence is often destroyed” and “perpetrators can quickly flee” after an attack.

“Motivation can be difficult to discern if there is no clear link to the purpose of the behavior,” she says.

“We often assume that there are direct links between target and motive, and if that is not the case, a more nuanced understanding of why people set fires is needed.”

Last week’s alleged attack appears to be sparking a growing underworld war involving hospitality venues across Melbourne.

Bar Bambi isn’t the only venue caught in the crossfire.

On May 2, five Molotov cocktails were thrown at the George Hotel on Cecil Street in South Melbourne.

Police have launched Operation Eclipse to investigate these incidents and who is behind them.

The task force has arrested 51 people in connection with 38 incidents since April 27.

“Thirty-eight of the 51 arrests were made in passing, so when people were about to commit offenses, they were arrested,” Detective Jason Kelly said last week.

“The Victoria Police response is working. We catch people who are about to commit these offenses.

“We’re there every night, every morning, and we catch them red-handed.”

Despite making more than four dozen arrests, detectives admit they have been unable to identify who is behind the attacks.

“We haven’t had the clear demands of serious and organized crime that you would expect and that we have seen through the illicit tobacco conflict,” Kelly said.

“We’re keeping an open mind. Everything is still on the table.”

“We are working intensively on certain research opportunities, including offshore [sydnicates].”

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