Man charged with bach arsons

Police have today arrested an unemployed 46 year old man and charged him with the arson of a bach in the St Arnaud area on 6 May 2012 and the arson of two baches and a stand alone garage in the Marlborough Sounds on 13 May 2012.

The man was located in Christchurch by Marlborough Detectives assisted by Police staff from Christchurch.

In addition; a number of charges have been laid in relation to the burglary of baches in the St Arnaud and Marlborough Sounds areas during May.

The man has also been charged with unlawfully taking a green Toyota Prado motor vehicle, the unlawful conversion of a red Holden Commodore, and the unlawful possession of a firearm.

Both vehicles and the firearm have been recovered by police.

The man has been remanded in custody to appear in the Christchurch District Court on Friday 1 June 2012.

Police are asking bach owners who may be visiting their properties over the long weekend to be vigilant for signs of a break in.

Detective Sergeant Dave Woodley of the Marlborough CIB said anyone who discovers their property has been entered should call local police and leave any disturbed items untouched.

He also expressed his thanks to the community for their assistance with the investigation and would like to take the opportunity to thank them publicly.