MUST READ: Alleged arsonists leave Fernwood residents in the dark

As the sun sets in Newcastle, and the winter chills creep in, criminals go on the prowl.

This was the case in Ribbon Street, Fernwood where two electricity boxes were allegedly set alight.

According to a resident, the box was seen on fire at around 11.30pm on Sunday (June 10).

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“The power was cut off and I went outside to check if it was just our house or if it affected the neighbourhood. That is when I noticed the electricity box was on fire.”

Upon closer inspection, remains of what looked like burnt tyre ash and wires surrounded the electricity box. A few metres away, another electricity box had also been set alight. This time it seemed as if a flammable substance was used.

“The ash burnt white and it smelt like paraffin,” claimed the resident.

According to Ward 3 Councillor, Matthew Shunmugam, the matter was brought to his attention by one of the residents.

“Two kiosks in the Fernwood area were also apparently set alight. The matter has been referred to police and the Fire Department – arson is suspected.”

Journalists visited the scene and the Newcastle Municipality’s Electrical Department team were seen attending to the damaged cables.

“Our electrical team is working around the clock to restore electricity to the affected areas.”

“The community is urged to be vigilant as we cannot afford to have such incidences as residents are inconvenienced and repairs are costly and time consuming,” concluded Cllr Shunmugam.

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