Anastasia Giokas, the owner of a hair salon in Caulfield in Melbourne’s south-east, is one of many victims affected by the city’s ongoing gangland conflict.
This conflict, also known as the ‘tobacco wars’, has resulted in her being unable to open her business.
“It’s absolutely devastating, this is our home. It’s everyone’s home,” Anastasia said. “It’s affected all our families, everyone.”
Nine News revealed that the conflict has been driven by two crime gangs who continue to fight for control of the illicit tobacco trade, which has resulted in over 50 fires since March last year.
Superintendent Jason Kelly of Victoria Police’s Taskforce Lunar expressed his concern over the potential for fatalities or serious injuries.
In the last six months, investigators have raided more than 100 tobacco shops and arrested more than 40 people.
“That’s 40 people who are currently before the criminal justice system for very serious offences of arson and extortion, and firearms-related violence,” Mr Kelly said.
Despite beliefs that there are potential syndicates working across the country, including places in QLD and WA, Victoria is the last state where a liscense isn’t required to open a tobacco store.
Plans from the Government are expected to come at the end of the year to introduce a new licensing scheme.
Source: Nine News.
