Blaze Shatters Local E-Bike Haven Amidst Turf Wars Over Tobacco Trade

In the early hours of Tuesday, Brunswick East witnessed a devastating fire that left a beloved e-bike store in ruins. Cargocycles, a staple in the community, became the latest casualty in what authorities are calling Victoria’s ongoing tobacco wars. The incident has not only impacted the business owner but has also raised concerns about the escalating violence tied to the illegal tobacco market.

Devastating Impact on Local Business

Gary Cookson, the owner of Cargocycles, described the scene as “horrendous.” The store, known for its wide range of e-bikes, was violently attacked around 2:55 AM when a luxury BMW was used to force entry through the garage doors.

• Immediate Aftermath:
  • 10 fire engines responded to the scene.
  • Firefighters worked tirelessly to salvage what they could.
  • Structural damage rendered the main showroom completely destroyed.

Mr. Cookson recounted the terrifying experience, emphasizing the sheer scale of the destruction. “To get that call at three in the morning and see burning bikes everywhere—it’s been one of the worst nights of my life,” he shared with ABC Radio Melbourne.

Linking the Attack to Tobacco Turf Wars

Police believe the arson was part of a series of retaliatory attacks aimed at controlling Victoria’s illegal tobacco market. The intended target was reportedly a gym situated above the bike store, which has connections to former Mongols bikie Sam Abdulrahim, also known as “the Punisher.”

Key Points:

• The gym relocated to the bike store premises earlier this year after a previous firebombing in October 2023.
• Multiple assassination attempts have been made against Abdulrahim.
• An underworld source informed ABC that the attack is part of ongoing tit-for-tat violence between rival criminal groups.

Victoria Police’s Lunar task force is actively investigating the incident, focusing on the intricate web of alliances and rivalries within the illegal tobacco trade.

Owner’s Plea for Government Intervention

In the wake of the attack, Mr. Cookson has called on the Victorian government to take decisive action to dismantle the black market controlling tobacco sales. He believes that without government intervention, more legitimate businesses like his will continue to suffer.

“Our priority is to keep trading. We’re a small family business with eight staff members, all of whom have families depending on us,” Cookson stated. He highlighted the inadequacy of current security measures in preventing such violent crimes, noting that despite having protections in place, they were powerless against a ram raid conducted with a luxury vehicle.

Steps Being Taken:

• Arranging emergency disposal of lithium batteries after one caught fire post-attack.
• Meeting with insurance companies to assess the damage and seek compensation.
• Searching for a temporary location to resume operations and support his employees.

Community and Police Response

The local community has rallied around Cargocycles, offering support and resources to help the business recover. Meanwhile, Victoria Police have intensified their efforts to curb the violence associated with the tobacco wars, recognizing the broader implications for public safety and the economy.

• Community Support:
  • Fundraising events organized to aid the bike shop’s recovery.
  • Local businesses offering temporary spaces and services.
• Law Enforcement Initiatives:
  • Increased patrols in areas known for criminal activity.
  • Collaboration with other agencies to disrupt illegal tobacco distribution networks.

As the investigation continues, the hope is that swift and effective measures will restore peace and security to Brunswick East, allowing businesses to thrive without the shadow of criminal influence.