EXTREME ACT: Police are concerned about Sunday night’s extreme act of vandalism at Orange airport where two helicopters and a ute were targeted. Photo: STEVE GOSCH 0107sgairport1
ORANGE airport may be forced to increase its security after vandals broke into the facility on Sunday night and caused thousands of dollars damage to two private helicopters and a ute.
Police say a caretaker at the airport discovered the damage at 5.30am yesterday when he arrived at work.
Canobolas Local Area Command Inspector Bruce Grassick said the vandals had tried to move one of the helicopters from its hangar, however, when they could not, they set it alight and sprayed it with graffiti.
The second helicopter was moved from its hangar and sprayed with graffiti, as were numerous signs around the airport and sections of the hangar.
A ute, owned by one of the helicopter operators, was also destroyed by fire.
Inspector Grassick said police were following several lines of inquiry and were yet to make any arrests.
Detectives from Orange and forensic officers from Bathurst spent much of yesterday investigating the scene.
“We also canvassed neighbouring properties and are appealing for anyone with information,” Inspector Grassick said.
He said while police were concerned about the “extreme act of vandalism”, things could have been worse, had the vandals damaged the helicopters without the pilots’ knowledge.
“It could have been catastrophic,” Inspector Grassick said.
“Airport management and (Orange City) council may have to look into increasing security.”
Inspector Grassick said police would also increase the number of patrols they do to the area.
tracey.prisk@fairfaxmedia.com.au
