According to Senior Sergeant Anthony Bond of Dunedin, the 33-year-old was at the government office on Princes St making inquiries when she tried to ignite a pile of papers with a flame from an aerosol can. Fortunately, she was unsuccessful, and security intervened to address the situation.
However, the woman responded by kicking the security personnel, prompting the arrival of the police around 4.50pm to take her into custody.
Upon further investigation, it was revealed that she was the same individual responsible for throwing two lit drink cans filled with paper through an open window at the Dunedin Night Shelter just days prior.
The woman is set to appear in Dunedin District Court today to face charges of arson and assault.
Contact: laine.priestley@odt.co.nz
