Pair linked to Carl Williams’ killer charged over police shooting

Two Melbourne men with links to the killer of underworld figure Carl Williams have been charged over the alleged attempted murder of a police officer.

First Constable Ben Ashmole was injured when a shotgun was allegedly fired at his police vehicle from a black 4WD at Moonee Ponds in the early hours of July 7.

Sam Liszczak, 22, and Rodney Phillips, 24, were arrested in dramatic dawn raids in Morwell and Oak Park this morning.

Dozens of officers carried out raids on eight properties in total, including some in Traralgon, Cranbourne West, Glenroy, Strathmore and Pascoe Vale.

The pair have since been charged with a host of offences relating to intimidation of Williams’ family and the officer’s shooting.

“They've been charged in relation to the attempted murder, arson attacks in Katandra, conduct endangering life, theft of motor vehicle,” Detective Superintendent Peter De Santo said.

It is alleged the men first firebombed a property in Williams’ wife Roberta’s Essendon street, before heading to Broadmeadows to attack his father George Williams.

In both cases, the wrong homes were targeted.

Two days later, they allegedly returned, firing on Mr Williams’ home, just minutes before the Constable was shot in Moonee Ponds.

Both men reportedly have ties to Matthew Johnson and his gang the “Prisoners of War”.

Johnson was convicted over the brutal 2010 prison murder of Williams, in which in the inmate was fatally bashed with the stem of an exercise bike.

Anyone with further information on the Moonee Ponds shooting is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report to www.crimestoppers.com.au.