South Australia Police (SAPOL) is urging the community to stay vigilant, to be aware of bushfire risks, and to report suspicious activity over the summer months.
As the final two fire ban districts begin their season this week, SAPOL are launching Operation Nomad 2025/26.
Operation Nomad is SAPOL’s annual bushfire prevention and response initiative that targets deliberate, reckless, and negligent behaviours.
In collaboration with the SA Country Fire Service (CFS) and SA Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS), police patrols will be highly visible in high-risk fire areas, taking a zero-tolerance approach to dangerous behaviour.
Assistant Commissioner Philip Newitt said those caught flouting the law will face tough penalties, ranging from fines through to life imprisonment for deliberately causing a bushfire.
During the 2024/25 fire danger season, police investigated 88 suspicious fires, 30 were determined to be deliberately lit, resulting in 16 people facing court and 20 people receiving fines.
Police urge the community to report suspicious behaviour via the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or free call on 1800 333 000.
If you see a fire, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
