Police investigate suspicious fire at a Docklands restaurant

Police are probing a suspicious blaze after a restaurant in Docklands went up in flames on December 8, the second venue to be targeted in as many weeks.

Emergency services were called to Almina, a Lebanese restaurant at Glenti Place, following reports of suspicious activity about 2.50am.

Police understand three offenders were seen smashing the window of the restaurant before a suspected accelerant was used to set it alight. The trio were then seen running before feeling in a vehicle.

Fire Rescue Victoria crews brought the fire under control just after 3am with firefighters remaining at the scene for an hour and a half.

A crime scene was established, with an arson chemist and investigators later on scene.

Workers were seen cleaning up the venue in the days following the fire, with extensive damage visible from the footpath.

Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad are investigating.

The incident comes after NewQuay Promenade restaurant Karisma was targeted twice in three days in suspected arson attacks on November 18 and November 20.

The latter incident left the venue destroyed after police allege two men poured an accelerant through the restaurant and set it ablaze.

No one was inside at either time, but residents were forced to evacuate on both occasions.

Police are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Photo: Almina in Docklands was damaged in a suspected firebombing attack.