Police probe arson attacks

POLICE are investigating a spate of fires which they believe were deliberately lit in the City of Casey and Cardinia Shire on Friday.
Casey Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for witnesses after what was initially reported as 20 suspicious fires Friday evening in Narre Warren, Harkaway, Cranbourne and Berwick.
The small shrub and grass fires occurred between 9 and 9.30pm at various locations including Hotham Street in Cranbourne, Hessel Road in Narre Warren North, Wintersun Road in Berwick and King Road and Rowallan Avenue in Harkaway.
Fire crews from Berwick, Narre Warren, Narre Warren North, Narre Warren East, Hallam, Beaconsfield, Hampton Park, Clyde and Belgrave South attended the multiple fires.
Detective Senior Constable Michelle Chiang said it there were about 20 fires reported, but only about 10 were witnessed and being investigated. She said it was fortunate that no-one was injured and no property was damaged in the fires.
Det Sen Con Chaing said police believed the fires were deliberately lit by the same people.
“It was very lucky there was no damage,” she said.
“These fires had the potential to be quite disastrous.”
Berwick resident Pat Kallady said he had property near Harkaway which contained his cattle and was thankful to the police and CFA for their quick actions Friday evening.
There was no damage done to the property or cattle thanks to their quick work,” Mr Kallady said.
“I don’t think (the emergency services) get praised enough.”
Following the fires on Friday evening, police intercepted a vehicle on Rowallan Avenue and arrested two men.
The 20-year-old from Narre Warren and 16-year-old from Berwick were interviewed and released pending further inquiries.
Det Sen Const Chiang urged people to be vigilant and said anyone who witnessed suspicious behaviour should report it to police.
Anyone with information about the fires or who may have witnessed anything suspicious is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au