Police warn that anyone caught looting in the Perth hills fire zone will be met with the full force of the law - and have targeted known offenders to try to prevent it.
Officers patrolling the streets surrounding the fire zone today revealed they had charged a youth after he was spotted allegedly riding a stolen motorbike near the burnt Parkerville area.
High-visibility patrols will begin in the area on Thursday, as reports emerged that properties within the so-called "hot zone" near Parkerville and Stoneville could have been targeted by thieves during the forced evacuation on Sunday.
Stoneville resident Greg Jones, who stayed to fight the fires, says since the flames receded he had seen and heard of instances of looting.
"There have been looters. I have seen a guy run past with a washing basket full of gear," he told ABC radio.
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"That is the other reason you need to stay - to protect your home from that.
"There are young kids on bikes that have looked suspicious, and I have heard other stories."
West Australian Police Commissioner Karl O'Callaghan said there had been no reports of looting, but residents should report any suspicions.
"In terms of property crime, that is the most despicable and lowest act that someone could commit," Mr O'Callaghan said.
"When people are in crisis like this, that someone could go on to their property and steal what is left of their property.
"We will take very firm and very quick action if we get good information about that."
A WA police spokesman said a 17-year-old male had been spotted near Parkerville allegedly riding a stolen off-road motorcycle, taken from a house outside the fire zone.
He was arrested and charged with 13 offences relating to outstanding warrants.
Units including mounted police will begin patrols in the area on Thursday.
"WA Police are committed to assisting residents return to their normal activities and are working together with the Shire of Mundaring to provide a safe and secure environment for this to take place," a statement said.
