Detectives from the Arson and Explosive Squad, Echo Taskforce and VIPER are investigating a suspicious fire in Dandenong shortly after 3.30am.
A car was used to crash through the front door of a Lonsdale Street gym.
The offenders allegedly poured accelerant through the building before setting it on fire and fleeing.
A short time later, emergency services were notified of a vehicle fire on Canberra Avenue in Dandenong, believed linked.
The fire caused extensive damage to the gym and it is being determined whether surrounding businesses were also impacted.
Detectives are treating the incident as targeted and are investigating whether it’s linked to a series of arson attacks by Middle Eastern Organised Crime groups and outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
