WA police are seeking two men caught on camera during an alleged fuel drive off near Mandurah using a ute that is believed to be a stolen fire truck.
The Toyota Landcruiser utility was taken from the Springfield Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade's shed near Pemberton in WA's South West on Sunday morning at around 2:00am.???
The rear tray of the stolen utility containing the firefighting equipment was found abandoned and damaged in bushland, and police are searching for the vehicle, which had distinctive 'SPRINGFIELD' fire brigade livery.
Police have now released images taken from CCTV footage captured at a fuel stop on Preston Beach on Tuesday - just over 200 kilometres north of Pemberton - that shows two men in a white ute with scratch marks on the doors, tray and body.
The scratch marks appear to lineup with where the logos and livery from the Springfield fire truck were on the original ute.
Police said the men are alleged to have been involved in fuel drive off, and believe the vehicle they were driving may be the stolen fire appliance, with the tray, livery and other bar work removed.
Acting Sergeant Kirk Hobson from Pemberton Police said the theft of the fire appliance is devastating for the local community, especially ahead of what's expected to be a severe bush fire season.
"We have a team of highly committed and dedicated volunteers who put themselves in harm's way to protect the local community, and to see this happen to them is disappointing," He said.
"Whoever stole the vehicle has put the local community at risk, and have a complete disregard for the safety of the community."
Police are urging anyone who recognises the men to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report the information online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au???
