Arsonists warned of lengthy jail term

PIC: Supplied

Covert cameras and surveillance equipment will be hidden in bushland around the State in a bid to catch arsonists.

Police Minister Michelle Roberts and Emergency Services Minister Francis Logan launched Strike Force Vulcan on Sunday and warned arsonists they would feel the full weight of the law.

"Deliberately lighting fires at a time of high bushfire risk is one of the most devastating acts and anyone caught deserves to feel the full force of the law," Minister Roberts said.

"This use of technology puts us one step ahead of these arsonists.

"Arsonists will now never be sure just who might be watching."

Strike Force Vulcan is the State's pro-active bushfire arson prevention and response strategy.

The team of detectives will provide high visibility patrols of high risk bushfire areas, target potential arsonists and implement preventative measures.

In the event of a bushfire outbreak, Strike Force Vulcan officers will be given special priority clearance on the roads to provide a rapid response and maximise investigative opportunities.

There are strong laws in place to protect the community from arson including penalties of up to 20 years in jail for deliberately lighting a bushfire and life imprisonment if property is damaged or destroyed.

Strike Force Vulcan will get underway from December 1 and operate until March 31, 2020.

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