Arabic version: شرطة سيدني تحقق في سلسلة من عمليات إطلاق النار وهجمات الحرق العمد

NSW Police are investigating a series of public shootings and arson attacks in Sydney, with concerns about escalating violence linked to organised crime networks. According to ABC News, some of the properties targeted are linked to the Alameddine crime family.

The incidents began just before 2 a.m. on Saturday when gunfire was reported at a barber shop in Casula, followed by an alleged arson attack at a café in South Wentworthville two hours later. The violence escalated further at 7:45 a.m., when officers responded to gunfire at a home on Fairmont Street in Merrylands. A second crime scene was established just after 8:15 a.m. in Guildford.

No injuries were reported from the shootings, but two individuals aged 17 and 21 were arrested following a pursuit with police, during which a firearm was allegedly seized from an abandoned vehicle in Smithfield. Detective Superintendent Jason Box noted that the targeted premises are well-known to be associated with the Alameddine crime family.

Superintendent Box expressed concerns that the violence appears to be retaliatory in nature and warned that the potential for further retaliation remains high. He emphasized the risks involved for those participating in violence against organised crime entities, stating that they may become victims of retaliation themselves.

The Alameddines are considered key players in Sydney’s drug trade, operating a complex organised crime network. In response to ongoing violence, NSW Police established Taskforce Falcon last year to address conflicts within the Alameddine network. Superintendent Box highlighted the taskforce’s efforts, which have led to over 400 arrests and more than 4,000 charges laid for serious offences.