Police are investigating a series of deliberately lit fires in pine plantations in the Limestone Coast.
The first of the series was reported back on November 30th. Police and fire crews were called to Duell Road at Moorak at around 8 pm that evening after reports of a grass fire. The pine plantation fire was deemed to be suspicious but the cause is undetermined at this time.
The second incident started at around 3 pm on December 12th with emergency services being called to Furness Road at Dismal Swamp. This fire was also deemed suspicious by fire officers.
The most recent incident was reported at around 2 pm on Monday. Police say a suspicious fire was started in a pine forest off McEncroe Road at Tarpeena which burnt about 5 hectares of land.
A few hours later a second fire started about 400m northwest of the original fire. This was quickly extinguished by CFS crews.
Officer in charge of Limestone Coast Local Service Area, Inspector Karmen Conway, said Police are keen to speak with anyone who may have information regarding any one of the three incidents.
“Police deploy resources in the region during the Fire Danger Season specifically looking for those who flout the law or who are negligent in their actions around vegetation," said Inspector Conway.
“This is a community response to keep our environment safe from fires and we encourage all members of the community to be aware of their responsibilities and to report any suspicious behaviours that could put our community at risk.”
Any information that may assist with these investigations, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.