Gangland boss’ Docklands restaurant destroyed in arson attack

The Docklands restaurant of underworld boss Fadi Haddara has been destroyed in a suspected firebombing attack, the second time in three days that suspected arsonists targeted the venue.

Dozens of apartment residents were evacuated from above New Quay restaurant, Karizma, in the early hours of Monday after a fire was believed to have been deliberately lit around 2am. The restaurant was destroyed in the suspected firebombing but no one was injured.

Company records show the restaurant is owned by Fadi Haddara, a prominent crime figure who has been linked to wide-scale drug trafficking, illicit tobacco importations and violence for more than a decade.

Police are investigating whether there are any links between the fires and the feud over control of Melbourne’s illicit tobacco trade, which has been linked to more than two dozen arson attacks across the city.

It is not yet clear why Karizma was targeted.

Emergency services were first called to the restaurant on November 18, when the business was badly damaged and 60 people were evacuated from apartments upstairs.

Convicted drug trafficker Fadi Haddara.Credit: Facebook

On Monday morning, the restaurant was destroyed by another fire, with about 40 residents again forced to evacuate after 2am. The cause of the fire has been deemed suspicious.

A resident living in the apartments above the restaurant, who did not want to be named to protect her and her family’s safety, said she could see the flames from her balcony and hear the fire raging below.

“I’ve never seen anything like it,” said the woman, who has been living in the building for several years. She said the foyer was filled with thick smoke as she rushed outside the building with her young son.

“It was terrifying last night,” she said. “I don’t know that I’ll sleep the next few nights.”

Police at the scene of Karizma Restaurant in Docklands which was targeted in a suspected arson attack overnight.Credit: Wayne Taylor

Police have taped off the deck around the restaurant, which was badly damaged, and uniformed officers were standing guard outside on Monday morning.

The blackened interior of the venue could be seen from the footpath through several shattered glass doors, which were hanging off their hinges. The floor was littered with charred debris and upturned tables.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with CCTV/dashcam footage or information that could assist investigators are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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