Mafia war brewing in Montreal
November 21, 2009 by The Boss · Leave a Comment
Who’s been firebombing all those Italian cafés in Montreal? The answer police have been getting so far: silenzio.
Police are stumped as to why at least five bars in the city have been hit by Molotov cocktails in less than a month, but it’s clear that the victims don’t want to talk.
The head of the Montreal police arson squad said his detectives are mulling a number of theories, but, with merchants remaining mute, all they have are hypotheses.
There’s the possibility that a Mafia war has erupted. Or perhaps a brazen street gang is trying to move in on the Mob’s turf. Or maybe rival gangs are battling among themselves. Police have even considered an arsonist with a particular penchant for putting latté-makers out of business.
“None of the hypotheses have been set aside, but none have been validated for the time being, either,” said Cmdr. Robert Quevillon, who heads the police arson and economic crimes unit.
What has police most concerned is the chance of innocent victims in the early-morning attacks.
No one has been injured so far, but “it’s worrisome because the areas have residences above or on either side of the café,” Quevillon said.
It’s a step backwards if owners aren’t willing to talk, says the Quebec Corporation of Bar, Pub and Tavern Owners, which represents 1,800 members in Quebec.
“The owners aren’t collaborating (now) and that sets a poor image. It gives the impression that they are directly involved in all of it,” said association president Renaud Poulin.
The province introduced a police sweep dubbed “Nocturnal” in 2004, designed to counteract intimidation by the Hells Angels at various drinking establishments across the province. Police would show up unannounced and act on allegations and tips from patrons and bar owners.
The exercise also served to forge better relationships with bar owners, who in the past have been reluctant to collaborate in investigations because of fear of reprisals.
Poulin said this round of attacks is eerily reminiscent of Quebec’s biker wars of the 1990s, which included a daily dose of tit-for-tat reprisals, including arson attempts.”I understand that owners might be afraid, but they can work with police in a discreet way.”
Source: thestar
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