Two Men Charged Over Alleged Arson Attacks on NSW Childcare Centres

Detectives from the organised crime and financial investigations command have charged two men following an extensive investigation into two alleged arson attacks targeting childcare centres in Sydney’s north and west.

The investigation was led under Strike Force Oldbury, which was established in July 2025 by the State Crime Command’s Financial Crimes Squad and Arson Unit.

The probe was launched after suspicious fires broke out at a childcare centre in Turramurra on 11 July 2025, and another in Castle Hill on 14 July 2025.

Fire and Rescue NSW crews attended both incidents and were able to extinguish the fires. Authorities confirmed there were no injuries, and only minor damage was caused to the exterior of the buildings.

Following further investigations, detectives arrested a 22-year-old man in Ambarvale about 8pm on 5 May 2026. Police allege he assaulted two officers while in custody at Campbelltown Police Station.

He was charged with multiple offences, including aggravated break and enter in company, participation in a criminal group, and two counts of assaulting police. He was refused bail at Campbelltown Local Court and remains before the court.

In a separate arrest, strike force detectives detained a 25-year-old man in Wellington on 11 May 2026. He was charged with aggravated break and enter in company and participation in a criminal group.

He was also refused bail and is due to appear before a local court.

The NSW Police Force said investigations under Strike Force Oldbury are continuing as detectives examine the alleged coordinated nature of the incidents.

Police have not ruled out further arrests.