Tararua Police are investigating two separate arsons that occurred over the weekend in Pahiatua and are appealing for assistance from the public to identify and locate the offender/s.
Detective Sergeant Shane Brown of the Tararua CIB says: "At about 12:07am on Sunday the 8th of June police and the Fire Service were called to a fire at the Pahiatua Recycling Centre Building on Queen Street. The fire took hold fast and the building became engulfed in flames. We are interested in any suspicious activity in the area and we know that a vehicle was seen outside the centre at about 11:30pm on the 7th of June."
"Officers are continuing to make inquiries and we want to speak to the driver and passengers of that vehicle."
The second arson was at the Pahiatua Police station which caused some surface damage to the garage door. It was discovered by two constables when they returned to the station after attending the first arson. It was beginning to make its way up the door jam and was not far from taking off before the officers put the fire out.
A scene examination from both fires shows that they were both deliberately lit and an accelerant was used.
"I believe these arsons are related and we have increased our patrol activity in the community. Officers are currently reviewing CCTV footage in the hope that those responsible may have been caught on the footage.
"We want to speak to anyone that may have any information about either of these arsons and I encourage them to contact police."
The penalty for anyone identified as having deliberately lit a fire in any property is a maximum of 14 years imprisonment.
"The community can help us by being vigilant and keeping an eye out for any suspicious activity in the area. If you see something that looks a bit dodgy don't discount it, call police immediately," says Detective Sergeant Brown.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Brown on (06) 213 9528. Alternatively information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.