Senseless damage Burglars taking and burning cars on rise
A STOLEN car was torched after thieves ran amok in bushland in what police are saying is a worrying trend.
The white Toyota Landcruiser was stolen from a house in San Vito Cres, Rasmussen, when unknown offenders forced their way in through a rear door of the house on Wednesday night and nabbed the car keys.
Witnesses reported hearing burnouts in multiple Rasmussen streets.
The car was dumped in bushland off Leila Ave, Rasmussen, and set alight.
Firefighters called to the scene about 5am yesterday had difficulty gaining access to the car due to the scrub.
A Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokeswoman said there were concerns about the blaze spreading through thick grass but firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze and any hot spots by 6.15am.
A number of small steel poles appeared to have been mowed over by the car near where the scrub meets the road.
Several tyre tracks were also visible.
Police have cordoned off a large patch of land as a declared crime scene while investigators inspect the vehicle.
Kirwan Police Station officer- in- charge Senior Sergeant Jason Brosnan said thieves burning out cars was a concerning trend.
“That’s probably the third such incident in as many weeks for the Kirwan policing area,” Sen- Sgt Brosnan said.
“It’s a bit of a concern when fires are being lit … they could be doing it to try and hide evidence or they could be doing it because they enjoy lighting fires but it only adds to distress and inconvenience for victims.”
Investigations are continuing and anyone with information is urged to call police through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Police Link on 131 444.