Yanchep Service Station was damaged in the December bushfire.
Camera IconYanchep Service Station was damaged in the December bushfire. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Police warn against trespass at burnt fuel station

Lucy JarvisWanneroo Times

POLICE say people caught trespassing or stealing from a service station damaged by bushfire could face imprisonment or fines up to $12,000.

The Yanchep Service Station was destroyed when an out-of-control bushfire tore through the area in December, burning through about 14,000ha over several days.

Since the area reopened, owners of the family business have reported several instances of trespass and items being stolen from the Yanchep Beach Road property.

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They said items taken included a trailer, vehicle parts, licence plates and garden ornaments, many of which had been scorched.

Yanchep Senior Sergeant Ben Huggett said police were investigating thefts from the site and warned people to stay away.

“We’ve had a number of reports in relation to people trespassing and possibly stealing from the rubble,” he said.

“It appears that people are stealing scrap items from the site.

“Stealing can carry a term of imprisonment up to seven years.

“Trespassing can be a term of imprisonment up to 12 months or a fine of up to $12,000.”

Police say asbestos poses a risk to people entering the Yanchep Service Station site.
Camera IconPolice say asbestos poses a risk to people entering the Yanchep Service Station site. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Sgt Huggett said entering the site could also be harmful to people’s health.

“The other concern is the hazardous nature of the site,” he said.

“Anyone trespassing onto that site could be exposed to asbestos and other hazardous materials.”

To report suspicious activity, call police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Yanchep Service Station was damaged in the December bushfire.
Camera IconYanchep Service Station was damaged in the December bushfire. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

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