Police are reminding the community that there will be an increased police presence in fire-affected areas on the state’s South Coast as part of Strike Force Indarra investigations.
Detectives from South Coast Police District have established Strike Force Indarra to investigate the cause, origin and overall impact of the fires in the local area.
The strike force will be assisted by specialist investigators from the Arson Unit’s Strike Force Tronto, State Crime Command, and across Southern Region.
Investigations are being undertaken on behalf of the NSW Coroner.
South Coast Police District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Scott Nelson, said members of the local community should not be alarmed if they see police and RFS personnel on local properties photographing and recording damage.
“Investigators will need to access affected properties and will keep the community informed by way of community meetings and letter box drops,” Det Insp Nelson said.
“It may take two to three weeks for investigators to work through properties across the entire district, but may be longer depending on the weather, environmental risks and changing fire behaviour, so please be patient.
“As part of our inquiries, we’d also be keen to review footage or images anyone has on their phones or other devices, that show any of the fires in their infancy, even if from a distance.
“Vision or images can be provided to Strike Force Indarra investigators via Crime Stoppers,” Det Insp Nelson said.
Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Indarra investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
