The State Crime Command’s Arson Unit is committed to cracking down on arsonists this bushfire season and police are reminding residents of the dangers associated with this type of crime.
The Property Crime Squad’s Strike Force Tronto 2011 has been re-activated in light of this year’s bushfire danger period.
The Strike Force will actively conduct investigations into reports of suspicious and deliberately lit fires across the state.
Under the Strike Force, NSW Police will continue to work closely with investigators from Fire and Rescue NSW and the Rural Fire Service to target arson crime.
Property Crime Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Greig Newbery, said NSW Police Force take all reports of suspicious fires very seriously and detectives were committed to thoroughly investigating all incidents.
“Strike Force Tronto 2011 has been re-activated with the aim of leading and/or assisting in the response to suspicious or deliberately-lit bushfires that have resulted in death, serious injury and/or significant property loss,” Det Supt Newbery said.
“Police are committed to targeting bushfire arsonists and anyone found to be involved in the deliberate lighting of bushfires will be dealt with under the full force of the law.
“The community is urged to be vigilant during this year’s bushfire season and to contact police if they are aware of a fire or if they notice any suspicious behaviour in their area,” Det Supt Newbery said.
NSW Rural Fire Service (NSWRFS) Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said that there was a zero tolerance approach to arson.
“There is no room for this type of behaviour in our communities and the NSWRFS will continue to work closely with NSW Police to investigate suspicious fire activity,” he said.
Anyone with information is urged to contact their local police station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 immediately.
