KEILOR DOWNS detectives are treating a fire at a St Albans Greek Orthodox Church as suspicious after books were found strewn around the altar.
It is believed the fire, which caused $40,000 damage, started inside of the church. Police said most of the damage was smoke-related and mainly confined to the interior. A nearby resident raised the alarm about 9.30pm on Saturday when he saw flames coming out of the St George Coptic Orthodox Church, on the corner of Arthur and Henry streets.
Investigators said there was nothing to indicate the fire was racially or religiously motivated.
It is still unclear whether the church was unlocked at the time.
Police are appealing to anyone with any information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
