Two men are facing arson charges over a burger shop fire in Melbourne with one of the men also facing charges over a Bendigo tobacco store fire.
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Police arrested a 25-year-old Preston man and a 27-year-old St Albans man on January 31.
The 25-year-old was charged with arson, robbery, theft of motor vehicle and other offences for the Melbourne fire.
He also faces charges over the alleged arson of a Bendigo tobacco shop that caused $4 million in damage.
The 27-year-old was charged with arson and theft of a motor vehicle linked to the Burgertory incident.
The Caulfield shop of the Burgertory chain was destroyed by fire on November 10, 2023. A violent clash between supporters of Israel and Palestine subsequently erupted in the area after speculation it was a hate crime.
Police say although the fire was deliberately lit there's no evidence it was racially or politically motivated.
Meanwhile, the Free Choice tobacco store in the Bendigo Mall was destroyed and surrounding businesses damaged in an early morning fire on Monday, January 29.
Businesses in the area are continuing to mop up with several having to relocate.
Police said the Bendigo fire was not linked to the Lunar Taskforce series of fires at tobacco stores.
The Preston man was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on February 1.
The St Albans man was released on bail pending his case at the Melbourne Magistrates' Court on February 2.
