Meet Arson and Explosives Detective Sergeant, Matt Rizun

Twenty-eight years ago, Detective Sergeant, Matt Rizun, wrapped up his final semester at university when he decided to apply and become a police officer. '

Spending several years at police stations across Melbourne’s inner-east, Matt found a real passion in detective work and criminal investigation. This included stints at the Yarra Criminal Investigation Unit, Sexual Crimes Squad and eventually the Arson and Explosives Squad.?

We recently spoke to Matt about his time in the squad and his experience at Victoria Police.

VP: How did you interest in arson and explosives begin?

MR: I'll probably more interesting Arson started when I did detective training school. Quite often not been exposed to arson and fire damage, stuff like that, I didn't really sort of know too much, and that sort of sparked my interest in the theme. The opportunity presented itself, probably back in 2013 to join the squad, which I did, and I spent four years. Out of my career, it's probably been the best time and that I've enjoyed the most out of all my work groups.

VP: Tell us about a career highlight.

MR: Probably the most significant case I've been involved in was a fire at the Springvale Bank. There was probably about 30 or 40 people affected that were inside the bank at the time when the male offender came in and set fire to himself. The people were various ages with various injuries. So, to actually get some closure for them at the end of the case was actually quite satisfying and rewarding.

VP: Most enjoyable part of the job?

MR: I think it's always a little bit of the hunt. You know, trying to catch the people of responsible for committing these offences. It's always good when you do a fair bit of hard work to identify who they are, build a case, gather the evidence, finally charge them, and have that success at court.

VP: What advice would you give anyone considering joining?

MR: Push your boundaries a little bit. There's so much diversity within Victoria Police. Myself, I've got a bias towards criminal investigation. But in saying that, follow your dreams. Whatever your passions lie, follow them. There's plenty of opportunity within Victoria Police.

Situated within the Crime Command, the squad’s role is to investigate offences including suspicious fire deaths and bombs and explosive devices, as well as provide support to police for offences including complex suspicious fires and intentionally or recklessly causing a fire.

They also strive to provide dedicated specialist investigation groups to target serious organised crime syndicates.??

If you have been searching for a career that challenges your skills and supports your passions, a career in policing may be the right fit for you.

Your duties as an officer will change every day, and the gateway to other specialist roles and areas are available to you through further training provided by Victoria Police.?