Broadmeadows man Mohammed Tiba charged over Point Cook tobacco shop fire

Officers from the special operations group and fugitive squad have arrested a second alleged arsonist after a fire at a Point Cook tobacco store caused $50,000 in damage.

A second man has been charged after an arson attack at a Point Cook tobacco store. Picture: Ian Currie

A second alleged arsonist has been charged over an attack on a Point Cook tobacconist.

Police brought in specialist officers from the special operations group and the fugitive squad to arrest Broadmeadows man Mohammed Tiba, 34, on Thursday afternoon after Tommi’s Gift and Smoking Accessories shop on Murnong St was set alight about 6am January 19.

He has been charged with arson, theft of a motor vehicle, intentionally causing injury and assault offences over a separate incident.

Charge sheets state damage to the Point Cook business was estimated to be between $50,000 and $55,000.

Police allege Mr Tiba stole a Ford Ka hatchback on the same day as the arson.

About $50,000 in damage was caused. Picture: Ian Currie

Police say he used a string of burner phones and sim cards, as well as several different vehicles, to avoid being detected.

Mr Tiba was allegedly involved in an assault on February 21, during which he allegedly bit the victim’s face, leaving them with severe facial injuries, and broke their tibia.

He briefly appeared before Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on Friday afternoon.

The court heard he was injured during his arrest but had been seen by a custody nurse.

His lawyer said he was possibly withdrawing from drugs, had an intellectual disability and an acquired-brain injury that affected his memory.

No details about the allegations against Mr Tiba were aired in court and he was remanded in custody.

His case was transferred to Melbourne Magistrates’ Court where he will appear on Monday.

A 26-year-old Campbellfield man was earlier charged over the alleged attack.

He was remanded to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on April 4.