Detectives deployed as part of Operation Whiskey Legion have helped extinguish a grass fire on Mornington Island.
At around 4pm on August 30, Brisbane detectives and officers from the Mount Isa Criminal Investigation Branch were called to a grass fire encroaching on a Marndatharrkan Street property.
Following permission from State Emergency Service staff, officers commandeered a fire truck and upon arrival, observed a vehicle engulfed in flames, and other properties at risk.
Working alongside council workers and members of the community, the detectives were able to contain the fire and prevent further damage to neighbouring properties before other emergency services arrived.
Mount Island District Officer Chief Superintendent Tom Armitt said the officers should be praised for their quick thinking.
“These officers are commended for their handling of this challenging situation, and we’re grateful to have had addition staff on the ground to assist,” Superintendent Armitt said.
“While Operation Whiskey Legion’s deployment to the Mount Isa District is focusing on reducing crime, officers will do what is required to protect the community from any, and all threats.”
Detective Senior Constable Clinton Moore said the officers handled the challenging and dynamic situation well.
“This is certainly not what we expected when we arrived on the island, but it was clear the community was at risk and we were happy to step in and assist,” Detective Senior Constable Moore said.
“Operation Whiskey Legion has highlighted the diversity of policing in remote communities for officers like us who have deployed from the south-east corner, no two days have been the same.”
The operation concludes on September 4.
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