Darebin Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for witnesses to two suspicious fires in Preston on Monday, January 11.

Investigators have been told that a male lit an overhanging tree branch at the rear of a house on William St, which backs onto a railway line about 10.30pm.

The fire spread causing damage to a boundary fence and back-yard shed.
It is believed two males entered a laneway at the rear of Bruce St which runs between High St and Mary St and lit an overhanging branch about 11.10pm before fleeing on foot north along Bruce St.

Detectives have released CCTV and images of two males who they believe may be able to assist with their investigation.

Both suspects are described as being Caucasian in appearance and are aged in their 20s.

The first suspect was wearing a cap, face mask, hooded jumper with motif on front and rear, shorts, ‘Adidas’ runners and was carrying a satchel bag.

The second suspect who has a sleeve tattoo on his left arm, was wearing a cap, face mask, t-shirt, pants and slides.

• Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au