A Mernda man is one of three men who were arrested during a police investigation into organised crime linked to the construction industry.
The 55-year old Mernda man was arrested on 12 February, during search warrants in Mernda, Eltham and Watsonia.
Police also arrested a 32-year-old ex-senior CFMEU official from Eltham as well as a 32-year-old Watsonia man, both have been identified as members of the Bandidos outlaw motorcycle gang.
The trio of arrested men remain in police custody.
The arrests relate to allegations of blackmail committed at a property in Brooklyn on 19 January, when a demand was made for the victim to pay $663,000.
Taskforce Hawk is leading the investigation and was formed in response to a number of allegations of serious and violent criminal behaviour linked to the construction industry.
Police said the force is focusing on individuals employed within the construction industry who have known links to outlaw motorcycle gangs.
Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact crime stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
