Drones are being used across Southern Tasmania to ‘spy on’ and monitor those undertaking illegal activities in remote areas.
Police and Sustainable Timber Tasmania are leading ‘Operation Eucalypt’ in a bid to crack down on illegal firewood sellers and rubbish dumpers in the Huon Valley.
Recent drone flights within the Southern Forests revealed “multiple locations” where individuals are illegally sourcing firewood.
The ‘eye in the sky’ also assisted Police in recovering a stolen vehicle from “deep bushland”, something that ‘wouldn’t have been possible’ without the drone, Police said.
“The use of drone technology will continue to be used in these areas to locate illegal activity from the sky.”
Firewood buyers are being urged to be cautious when buying wood from sellers and when arranging to have rubbish removed, particularly if done through social media platforms.
Police say you should “always ask questions to ensure rubbish is disposed of legally, and that the firewood is not stolen”.
Illegal firewood gathering or rubbish dumping can be reported to Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers.
