Arson attack on camera
POLICE have launched an investigation after a mobile traffic camera erupted in flames on Monday night.
According to police, initial investigations indicate the trailer, registered as belonging to the Commissioner of Police, was set on fire between 9pm and 9.30pm on November 21.
The trailer was parked on Irene St in Mooroobool at the time of the incident.
A police spokeswoman said the Queensland Police Service was listed as the victim in the alleged arson matter.
“Investigations are ongoing to establish who set the fire,” she said.
The attack follows the rollout of world-first portable speed cameras across Queensland.
The solar-powered cameras will be deployed at roadside worksites and school zones across the state with the aim of reducing risk to children and workers.
The cameras were specifically designed and built to sit on top of a mobile platform that can easily be manoeuvred to different locations around a worksite.
At school zones, the cameras will be installed at stationary positions near speed signs but also can be moved around as needed.
Earlier this year Queensland Police Superintendent Janelle Andrews said the cameras were targeting drivers doing the wrong thing.
“These new speed cameras force drivers to slow down in order to avoid a fine or incur demerit points,” she said.
“No one wants to carry the guilt of the death or injury of a child walking to or from school or a road worker simply carrying out their job. There is no penalty for doing the right thing.”
From July this year, Queensland increased penalties for speeding so those travelling 1-10km/h over the limit incur a $287 fine and one demerit point and $431 and three demerit points for between 11-20km/h.
The latest data from the Department of Transport and Main Roads released on November 21 reveals 261 people have died as a result of a car crash on the state’s roads to date this year.
In the Far North 29 people have lost their lives this year which equated to a massive 81.3 per cent increase on 2021.