A business on Cliff St. in Nanaimo's downtown core sustained serious damage after a fire was deliberately set on Friday, June 4. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

FIRE BUGS

Suspicious fires in downtown Nanaimo keep emergency crews active

Jun 15, 2021 | 2:48 PM

NANAIMO — A series of deliberately set and suspicious fires around Nanaimo has lead to a full investigation from Nanaimo RCMP and Fire Rescue.

More than 20 suspicious fires were set, mostly around downtown Nanaimo, in the past three months. Many involved cardboard and garbage, however one business on Cliff St. sustained significant damage.

“If it wasn’t for the quick response of Nanaimo Fire Rescue, the building could have been destroyed,” RCMP Cst. Gary O’Brien told NanaimoNewsNOW.

O’Brien said the bike unit is currently spearheading the joint investigation.

“They know downtown, they know the people and they’re making inroads. They’ve identified several people of interest who they believe are responsible for some of the fires. There are still many fires remaining unsolved and this is troubling.”

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Over 20 fires were recorded during recent weeks, all deliberately lit and suspicious in nature. (submitted photo/Nanaimo RCMP)

Nanaimo Fire Rescue chief Tim Doyle said the biggest concern for firefighters and biggest target for perpetrators is combustible materials stored outside.

He urged businesses to safely secure any combustibles and not leave them in dumpsters, while also making sure to clear out unsecured spaces such as alleyways and alcoves.

Anyone with information about the fires are urged to call Nanaimo RCMP.

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