Knockout Nutrition arson attacks being investigated in St Marys, Rouse Hill
Supplement stores in Western Sydney have been targeted in a series of arson attacks. Police believe the fires have cost one business more than $300,000.
NSW
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Targeted arson attacks in Western Sydney has cost a small-business owner more than $300,000 in damage, according to police.
Officers have been investigating a series of incidents at Knockout Nutrition stores in St Marys and Rouse Hill after fires in 2019 and 2020.
Detective chief inspector Richard Puffett is hopeful newly released CCTV footage will help police find the culprits.
“Arson detectives have conducted extensive investigations into these three attacks, which appear to have been deliberately targeted and linked,” he said.
“From our initial inquiries, it is evident that those involved have extensive knowledge of the two businesses and have gone to great lengths to ensure significant damage is sustained during each of the fires.
“In total for all three incidents, more than $300,000 damage was sustained – which is a substantial financial loss for any business owner. Offences of this nature are extremely concerning to police and have the potential to cause serious injury to the community or death.”
The first fire was started on July 25 last year. Fire and Rescue NSW managed to extinguish the blaze on Queens St, St Marys but the business suffered significant damage.
Police were told at the time that witnesses saw two men break into the building before setting it alight.
Four months later, on November 14 , another fire was started at the same business. Police said a man drove an Audi into the store, destroying its security shutters, before sparking the blaze.
In November 25 last year, there was another attack at the Knockout Nutrition store in Rouse Hill.
The fire began at the shop on Market Lane and there was significant damage to the business.
No one was injured and initial inquiries revealed a man broke into the store with a hammer before setting the business alight.
He was seen leaving in a black Nissan QASHQAI.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police.
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