Thieves hit fire homes
POLICE are yet to find any criminal evidence behind the bushfire that has ravaged at least 71 homes in the Perth Hills, but have confirmed two evacuated properties were burgled.
Commissioner Chris Dawson revealed an Aveley home that was evacuated as a precaution and another property in Red Hill had been targeted by criminals.
“In both instances, a small number of items were stolen,” he said on Wednesday.
“I would not characterise this as looting, but it is of course a serious concern that there have been two burglaries in those locations.”
Mr Dawson said police would continue to patrol the fire zones.
Meanwhile, reports that the blaze may have been started by fireworks then accelerated by a meth lab appear to have been debunked.
Department of Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm said he was aware of the reports circulating in the community.
“I’ve heard the same thing and I understand that the fire did start close to a home, but in terms of what caused it we’re not in a position to say that yet,” he told 6PR radio.
Police later indicated there was no evidence to support such allegations.
“Arson Squad are not investigating any clandestine drug labs or firework use,” a spokeswoman said.
“There are no indicators of criminality at this time and no persons being interviewed under suspicion of any crime.”
Mr Klemm said the fire remained largely static overnight with milder conditions.
“It’s also allowed us the opportunity to build some breaks along the southern flank,” he said.
Federal Emergency Management Minister David Littleproud says people who lost their homes in the bushfire will be eligible for payments of $1000 per adult and $400 for a child.