POLICE have joined forces with Kent Fire and Rescue in an attempt to tackle what they call "an alarming rise" in arson attacks.

Today sees the launch of Operation Numerator, which involves a team of police officers carrying out the investigation into three incidents of arson at industrial units in Crown Quay Lane, Sittingbourne last week.

Police say the team will examine every line of enquiry available to them. They will take advantage of forensic opportunities looking for possible DNA and fingerprints. Members of the team will also closely examine photographs of the crime scenes.

A dog handler was drafted in to help with the enquiry, which resulted in the track of the suspect being found. Police will also be examining the possibility that the offender may have been spotted on CCTV.

Insp Jon Sutton, who is leading the investigation, said: "I would like to stress that we are taking these arson attacks extremely seriously and will follow up all lines of enquiry available to us.

"We will take full advantage of every tool available to us to catch the offender.

"Arson not only causes extensive damage which can be costly to repair, but can also result in someone being injured or even killed. I am keen to work with Kent Fire and Rescue Service to stop this current trend from escalating.

"If anyone has any information that will help us with this enquiry, please contact us on 01795 584170, all calls are treated in strictest confidence will be thoroughly researched."

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