Canterbury Police and investigators from the Fire Service have confirmed that yesterday’s (5 January 2015) fire near the plantation at Pines Beach plantation is being treated as suspicious.
Acting Inspector, Phil Dean, says “We are asking anyone who noticed any suspicious activity near the intersection of Kay Ave and Batten Grove between 1-2pm yesterday to contact Police as they may be able to provide information that will help with their investigations. Residents were allowed back into their properties at 6pm last night when the cordon was reduced to encompass the bush and plantation area. The Fire Service spent a further two and a half hours damping down hot spots.”
“The prompt reporting of this fire to emergency services undoubtedly prevented properties in the area being damaged by the fire. Considerable resources from the Fire Service and Police were deployed to the area including a monsoon bucket equipped helicopter” said Acting Inspector Dean.
Canterbury Police ask anyone who saw anything suspicious near the intersection of Kay Ave and Batten Grove between 1-2pm yesterday (5 January 2015) to contact them by calling 03 313 6167 and leaving a message with their contact details.
Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404