Men charged over allegedly setting Sydney restaurant ablaze

Police have today charged two men following an investigation into an alleged assault and arson attack in Sydney's Inner West.

The pair were arrested at separate correctional centres in New South Wales yesterday over the incidents.

The first occurred on December 29, 2022 when police were called to an underground carpark on Northcote Street in Mortdale following reports of an assault.

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‌Officers found a 43-year-old man suffering serious injuries after allegedly being repeatedly hit with a baseball bat by three unknown men who then fled the scene.

‌He was treated by paramedics before being taken to hospital in a serious condition.

‌The next week at about 3am on January 4, 2023, emergency services were called to a restaurant fire on The Boulevard in Strathfield. Thee blaze caused significant damage to the business.

‌An allegedly stolen black BMW was found alight on Portland Avenue in Enfield a short time later.

‌Detectives believe the alleged assault of the man and suspicious fire are linked.

‌Following inquiries – including a public appeal for information - police arrested a 40-year-old man on the NSW Mid North Coast yesterday morning.

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H‌e was charged with two counts of destroying property in company use by fire, driving a motor vehicle during a disqualification period, driving a vehicle taken without the consent of its owner, and receiving a stolen motor vehicle as a serious indictable offence.

‌He was refused bail and is due to appear in court today.

‌Police also arrested another man at a Correctional Centre in Silverwater, Western Sydney yesterday morning.

‌The 23-year-old was charged with two counts of destroy property in company use fire and drive conveyance taken without consent of owner.

‌He was refused bail and is scheduled to front court next Wednesday.

‌Police will allege in court the two men were involved in the alleged arson attack in Strathfield.

‌Inquiries are continuing and police are advising anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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