arson
Arson strike force reactivated
2 October 2007
published by www.smh.com.au
The NSW Government has resurrected a police strike force to investigate arson attacks following the devastating start to the state’s bushfire season.
Strike Force Toronto was first established after a series of massive fires around Christmas 2001.
Premier Morris Iemma said today the task force would now examine all bushfires this season and provide help to local investigations.
“Between 2001 and 2002 Toronto investigated 503 bushfires, finding 112 had been deliberately lit,” he said.
“In 2002-03, 890 bushfires were investigated with 202 deliberately lit and 24 (people were) charged with arson.”
Mr Iemma also called on members of the public to come forward with information about suspicious behaviour near bushfires.
Convicted arsonists face up to 10 years jail or 25 years if their actions are considered life-threatening.
