A family home in Sydney's inner west was sprayed with a warning message and covered in petrol in what police are investigating as a suspected arson attempt with possible links to organised crime.
Just before 3.30am on Saturday, emergency services were called to a property on Weddle Avenue, Abbotsford, after 'malicious damage'.
They 'found the driveway had been spray painted and covered in petrol with a number of items located', NSW Police said in a statement.
Witnesses told officers that two people were seen leaving in a 4WD, but no further description was provided.
A neighbour had smelt the fuel and yelled, causing the pair to flee.
A threatening message had been written on the driveway before the pair fled: 'Junkie dog. Don't run your mouth.'
Officers are investigating whether the incident is connected to tensions involving Sydney's underworld crime network, The Daily Telegraph reports.
Acting Inspector Denis Dreon described the attempted arson as 'extremely brazen'.
Just before 3.30am on Saturday, emergency services were called to a property on Weddle Avenue, Abbotsford in Sydney's inner west, after 'malicious damage'. Pictured, a Google street view of the property
An investigation has commenced into the circumstances surrounding the incident and any links to a fire at a home two doors down. Pictured, smoke above Weddle Avenue on Tuesday
'That's why we're amping up our police response to ensure that these people are safe and the community is safe from these people,' he said.
A crime scene has been established, which will be forensically examined.
An investigation has commenced into the circumstances surrounding the incident and any links to a fire at a home two doors down.
About 4am on Tuesday, emergency services were called to the same street after reports of a house fire.
Officers found the home ablaze and had to use a ladder to rescue an 88-year-old woman who was trapped on a second-storey balcony.
The neighbouring houses were also evacuated and the home was destroyed.
Four occupants were treated by paramedics for smoke inhalation. Police allege a 17-year-old boy involved in the incident suffered severe burns.
As inquiries continue, anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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