Crackdown on business arson fraud

The team jointly investigates false insurance claims after arson attacks

A specialist team has been set up on Merseyside to investigate false insurance claims made after arson attacks on businesses.

The Flare team is aimed at targeting arson related-fraud during "harder economic times" in the area.

Merseyside Police Chief Constable Bernard Hogan-Howe said: "Gaining through false insurance claims is not a way out."

The team will jointly investigate any fires at commercial properties.

'Reckless act'

Merseyside businesses and insurance companies will also be made aware of the new initiative between police and the fire service, one of the first of its kind in the UK, to prevent more incidents.

Mr Hogan-Howe added: "I understand that the economic downturn is having an adverse effect on many businesses but arson with the intent of gaining through false insurance claims is not a way out.

"By committing such a reckless act not only will you lose your business, but you could destroy your life and the lives of others."

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service acting chief officer Michael Hagen said: "We know that arson-related fraud often increases in times of recession, which adds to the risk to our communities and firefighters as well as costing jobs."