Bendigo Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating 14 suspicious fires that occurred around the Bendigo area over the past three weeks.
It's believed an arsonist is using sparklers to light fires in areas surrounding Bendigo since 29 December.
The blazes are being lit along rural roadsides, frequently near houses and spreading into crops.
There have been no injuries or damage to any structures reported.
The fires detectives are currently treating as linked are:
- 29 December three fires were lit in grasslands at the vicinity of River and Myola-Barnadown roads, Muskerry about 6.30am
- 2 January a fire was lit in grass and bushland on River Road, Myola about 3pm
- 6 January two fires were lit in grassland along the side of Keane Road, Diggora about 7.30am
- 6 January four fires were lit in grassland along River Road, Muskerry about 5.00 am
- 9 January three fires were lit in grassland on Yorkshire Road, Wilsons Hill, and a further fire at a rest stop near the Marong Primary School about 3pm
Bendigo Crime Investigation Unit Detective Leading Senior Constable Andrew Heazlewood said the firebug needed to be caught.
"Thankfully none of these fires have caused any significant damage so far however with the right weather conditions a small grassfire could turn into a dangerous bushfire," he said.
"We are asking members of the public to think back if they were in these areas at the time of the fires and report any information that might be helpful.
"We are also urging people to keep an eye out for any suspicious behaviour or cars parked on the side of the road near some of the fire areas to come forward."
Any witnesses or anyone with vision is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link
