Police charge man after CBD fires

Police have charged a 27-year-old man after several allegedly suspicious fires in Melbourne’s CBD on Monday.

Police received a report of a fire at a Lonsdale Street hotel about 10.40am, 6 January.

A fire was extinguished in the linen room of the hotel aft6er the blaze caused extensive damage.

More than 40 people were evacuated as a precaution.

Within a short period of time emergency services also received reports of small paper fires outside buildings on Exhibition Street, Haywood Lane and Russell Street.

There was no damage in relation to these fires or any injuries reported.

In total six fires were reported.

A 27-year-old Roxburgh Park man was arrested nearby a short time later.

He was charged with six counts of arson and two counts of theft.

The man will face Melbourne Magistrates Court later today.

Anyone with information that could assist police with their enquiries is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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