By NOEL MURPHY
POLICE have placed local firebugs on notice with a ramped up assault on deliberately-lit bushfires this summer.
Specially-trained officers across Geelong and the Surf Coast will target arson attacks and negligent fire-starters as part of a special state-wide operation to minimise fires as high temperatures and strong northerlies strike.
Seven bushfire, arson and explosives liaison officers (BAELOs) will be based in the Geelong region and two more on the Surf Coast to crack down on firebugs after an alarming increase in arson.
Police this week revealed a 37 per cent hike in deliberately-lit fires last year.
Police and Emergency Services Minister Kim Wells said firebugs would “not be tolerated”.
“Victoria Police will increase monitoring of known arsonists who may pose a risk to the community and will pursue anyone, who deliberately or carelessly starts a fire.”
About 250 BAELOs will offer specialist advice on prevention, intelligence and enforcement operations to local police around Victoria over summer.
