A Tasmanian man has been charged with 11 counts of trespass and 11 counts of theft after being caught allegedly stealing firewood within the Tin Pot Marsh Creek Reserve at Woodsdale over the weekend.
The 33-year-old Oakdowns man was caught ‘cutting firewood’ during a joint operation that utilised ‘covert surveillance’ and proactive methods at 4am on Saturday.
Police say the man was promptly arrested, with officers finding more than 50 tons of firewood at a value of over $10,000.
He has since been bailed to appear before the Court at a later date.
Six other offenders who were identified during the operation will also face charges for theft and trespass.
Police are asking the public to be cautious when buying firewood and to ask questions to ensure that it has been sourced legally.
Anyone with information about illegal firewood gathering is encouraged to contact Tasmania Police or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers.
