Fire-bugs under microscope

UP TO 200 extra police officers will be hunting arsonists in Casey during days of extreme fire danger this summer.
Police have warned potential arsonists that Operation Firesetter would involve intensive police patrols of fire hot spots, aimed at catching fire-bugs before they put the community at risk.
The statewide operation implements a key recommendation in the Bushfire Royal Commission, and will be carried out in the Casey Police Service Area including towns such as Lysterfield, Narre Warren, Berwick, Cranbourne, Pearcedale and Lynbrook.
Senior Sergeant Steve Wood from the Endeavour Hills police station said the extra police attention would be called in on severe, extreme or code red fire danger days.
“We want to make sure they’re caught before they actually light a fire. It’s prevention rather than reaction,” Sen Sgt Wood said.
The tragic circumstances of Black Saturday were something police never wanted to see happen again, Sen Sgt Wood said.
He said Operation Firesetter was a major priority in Casey, and urged community members to play their part.
“People have an obligation to themselves and the community to come forward if they see anything, no matter how small the detail, because it could make all the difference.
“People acting strangely, anything that just doesn’t seem right should be reported. It might be a member of your family, a friend, or a colleague, and often these people need help.”
People can report suspicious behaviour by calling triple-zero.
People with information about arson can report it confidentially to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.