POLICE are asking witnesses and the driver of a small SUV to contact authorities after a suspicious fire in Drouin West over the weekend.
UPDATE 11 FEBRUARY 1355:
Warragul Police senior sergeant John Brookes OAM told The Warragul Citizen police were looking to speak to the occupant of a small white SUV:
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“Police are investigating a suspicious fire that occurred in scrub/bushland on Old Jindivick Road, Drouin West at approximately midday on Sunday 9th February. The fire burnt approximately seven hectares of paddock and scrub and destroyed some fencing of a private property. Numerous local CFA units and aerial support were eventually able to control the fire and prevent it spreading further.
“Police are appealing for anyone that was travelling along Main Neerim Road, Drouin West and witnessed any suspicious behaviour to contact Warragul CIU detectives on 56227150 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.
“Police are also appealing for the male occupant of a small white coloured four wheel drive SUV who was in Old Jindivick Road at the time of the fire to contact them. They believe this male can provide vital information about the fire.”
FROM 10 FEBRUARY, 1730:
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Investigators from the Arson and Explosives Squad and other specialist units are working with local police to determine the cause of the fire.
The fire saw a Watch And Act warning issued for Drouin West, Rokeby, Brandy Creek, Bravington, Buln Buln and Crossover before it was brought under control by fire crews.
A number of fires which started across the state yesterday remain under investigation.
“Police are currently looking to determine the cause of 14 grass and scrub fires around the state,” a police spokesperson said in a media release.
“Of these 14, initial investigations have rendered nine as being suspicious.”
The Drouin West fire was one of those nine fires.
“Victoria Police encourages members of the public to remain patient during this investigation process as it may be several days or weeks before causation can be determined,” the spokesperson said.
“Victoria Police has resources deployed around the state to accommodate for the ever-changing fire environment and we encourage people to monitor emergency services websites for updates.
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“To report information on suspicious behaviour you have seen or concerns about a member of your community, call Crime Stoppers on 1300 888 000.”
