POLICE taskforce Maverick, established to combat the escalating illicit tobacco trade, has made multiple arrests in connection with several arson and criminal damage incidents targeting businesses across the Swan Valley and Wheatbelt.

Detectives from the serious and organised crime division have charged two men following the fire that severely damaged a tobacco shop on Great Eastern Highway as reported in Arson attack on Midland tobacco shop escalates organised crime fears.

Police allege the suspects arrived in a stolen red Hyundai, deliberately started the blaze, and then left the area.

A 22-year-old Craigie man was arrested on December 8 and charged with eight offences including criminal damage by fire and stealing a motor vehicle.

He is expected to remain in custody until his next court appearance on December 30.

Following a search warrant on December 15, a second man, a 20-year-old from Dayton, was charged with criminal damage by fire, drug offences, and failing to obey an order.

He appeared before Midland Magistrates Court on Tuesday and is expected to remain in custody until his next court appearance on February 10.

A York business on Avon Terrace was also the target of three separate incidents.

A 20-year-old man from Wilson has been charged in connection with the attacks, which included forced entry causing extensive damage on October 31, a vehicle ramming of the storefront on November 8, and an alleged arson attack on November 26.

He faces four charges, including criminal damage by fire and aggravated burglary, and appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on December 12.

According to police both Midland and York businesses are linked to illicit tobacco products.

Inquiries are ongoing and police urge anyone with information to contact Crimestoppers online or by calling 1800 333 000.