Police Investigate Suspicious Fires in Albert Town, Call for Public Help

Police are seeking assistance from the public as they investigate a series of late-night fires deemed “suspicious” in Albert Town, approximately 3 kilometers from Wānaka. On September 20, 2023, officers responded to reports of multiple fires that resulted in significant damage to local infrastructure and forced residents to evacuate their homes.

The fires primarily affected a cell tower and two data boxes located on Alison Ave. Detective Phill Hamlin from the Otago Lakes Criminal Investigations unit stated that authorities suspect the fires were intentionally set. He emphasized the danger posed to both nearby residences and vehicles, noting that the flames were alarmingly close to homes where many residents were sleeping.

“These fires were mere metres away from housing where people were at home and many were in bed,” Detective Hamlin said. “They have had to run from their homes. Their lives and homes have been put at risk by these actions.”

Call for Information and Evidence

The police are urging anyone who traveled through Albert Town, particularly via Alison Ave or State Highway 6 (Lake Hāwea-Albert Town Road), between 22:00 and midnight on September 20 to come forward. They are specifically looking for dashcam footage or residential CCTV recordings that might capture the events of that night.

Additionally, police are requesting any videos taken of the fires at any point during the incident, including those recorded while emergency services were on the scene.

Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to call 105 and quote file number 250921/4784. Information can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of the community while holding those responsible for this alarming incident accountable.