British Transport Police have released images of two men they want to speak to after an ignitable liquid was allegedly poured around railway land before a fire was deliberately started in Sheffield.
The incident happened at around 7.40pm on Tuesday, 11 August, close to Beighton Level Crossing.
British Transport Police said two men entered private Network Rail land and poured an ignitable liquid around the site, including onto railway sleepers, before starting a fire.
The flames then spread across dry grass before the two men left the area.
Emergency services, including South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, attended and the blaze was extinguished by around 8.35pm.
No injuries were reported.
Police searched the surrounding area following the incident but were unable to locate anyone.
Series of fires investigated
BTP said the incident is the latest in a series of fires reported on or close to the railway line in the Beighton area.
One man has previously been arrested on suspicion of arson in connection with the investigation and remains on bail.
Officers have now released images of two men who they believe may have information that could assist their enquiries.
Sergeant Roy Percival said the latest fire had burned a “significant area of land”, warning of the potentially devastating consequences of deliberately starting fires during dry conditions.
He said the quick response from firefighters had helped prevent the incident from potentially having a much greater impact on nearby residents and businesses.
Network Rail’s head of safety, health and environment, Martin Clews, described the incident as “disturbing and reckless”.
He warned that deliberately starting fires near railway lines could damage critical infrastructure, disrupt train services and put passengers, railway workers, residents and businesses at risk.
Appeal for information
Anyone who recognises the men pictured or has information that could assist the investigation should text British Transport Police on 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 665 of 11 August.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
