NSW Bushfires: ‘Scavengers of human misery’: Police seize goods allegedly looted from fire-ravaged homes
Police say the alleged “scavengers of misery” have taken advantage of the community’s most vulnerable during the months-bushfire long emergency.
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Police have vowed to catch what they’ve dubbed “scavengers of human misery”, after a number of electrical items, believed to have been stolen from bushfire-ravaged homes, were uncovered today.
About 3pm today, officers from South Coast Police District and the Southern Region Enforcement Squad executed a search warrant at a home in Narooma, following reports of looting in the area.
Police located and seized a number of electrical items and phones believed to have been stolen during the recent and devastating bushfires.
South Coast Police District Crime Manager, Detective Inspector Scott Nelson said police would continue to investigate and act on reports of looting across the South Coast, promising to catch those involved.
“They aren’t smart criminals and we will catch them,” he said.
Inspector Nelson said police had bolstered the number of officers on the ground in fire affected areas, in a bid to ensure people aren’t taking advantage of the vulnerable.
“I want to urge members of the community – if you see something, say something. If you have suspicions at all and wish to report a crime, don’t hesitate – contact police or Crime Stoppers,” he said.
“Information provided to police from members of the public can help us identify and take legal action against those who are targeting our most vulnerable communities.”
The NSW Police Force is providing a high-visibility presence to deter criminal activity throughout the current bushfire emergency and assist other emergency services to ensure bushfire-affected areas are safe for the community to return as quickly as possible.
Inquiries are continuing.