By Aneeka Simonis
ARSONISTS are more likely to set fire to their own neighbourhood than are strangers, according to police.
Pakenham Senior Sergeant Nathan Prowd has urged anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour to report it this bushfire season.
He said communities often believe suspicious fires are lit by strangers.
However, he said firebugs were more likely to set fire to land or property in their own community.
“The vast majority of people who start fires live in the community. People often have this fear that someone outside is coming in but that’s not often the case,” Sen Sgt Prowd explained.
He said arsonists generally target areas close to home because they feel “comfortable” in knowing their own surroundings.
“If people notice someone acting suspiciously, they need to report it.”
More than 70 per cent of arson-related offences committed in Cardinia Shire in the 12-months leading to July 2015 are unsolved.
Police crime statistics show just under 100 arson offences were committed in that period, and offenders were processed for just 28 of the cases.
Those aged in their twenties and 50 years or more were highest represented, followed by child arsonists aged 10-19.
The semi-regional area was subject to 47 per cent more fires over the 12-month period.
Sen Sgt Nathan Prowd attributed the rise to population growth.
Police and firefighters have expressed concern over potential impacts the car fire crime wave might have on grassland come summer time.
Cars are increasingly being stolen, dumped and torched in Cardinia Shire in recent months.
Sen Sgt Nathan Prowd said this criminal offending was a “major concern” heading into bushfire season.
“These offenders don’t consider the potential consequences,” he said.
Pakenham CFA have been known to respond to four car fires in a week.
Report suspicious behaviour by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
For bushfire advice, visit emergency.vic.gov.au or call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.
