A probationary member of the Rural Fire Service has been charged after allegedly starting bushfires in the state’s Hunter Region.

Strike Force Billett was established by the Property Crime Squad’s Arson Unit to investigate more than 100 bushfires in the Cessnock area between August 2015 and April 2016.

As a result of their inquiries, a 20-year-old man was arrested at a fire at Lochinvar about 2pm yesterday (Thursday 28 April 2016).

Following a search of the man’s vehicle, investigators also located and seized accelerants and a number of mobile phones.

The man, who is a probationary member of the Rural Fire Service, was taken to Maitland Police Station and charged with five counts of cause fire and be reckless to its spread, and trespass.

He has been refused bail to appear at Maitland Local Court today (Friday 29 April 2016).