The Vila Real GNR announced in a statement that following a report concerning a forest fire in the town of Vila Marim, in the Alvão mountain range, officers conducted police operations that led to the identification and interception of the suspect.
The officers determined that the fire was caused by direct flame, using a lighter found in the individual’s possession.
The arrest took place at 02:00, during an ongoing fire in the Alvão mountain range that began at 20:46 in Quintelas, near Vila Marim, and was brought under control by 10:50 today.
The GNR stated that the suspect was detained and the lighter confiscated.
The detainee was formally charged, and the facts have been reported to the Vila Real Judicial Court.
The National Republican Guard stated that it remains vigilant in the prevention and combat of rural fires, actively contributing to the criminal accountability of those responsible and the protection of people, property, and natural heritage.
The Alvão mountain range in Vila Real was previously struck by a large fire between August 2 and 13, which spread to Mondim de Basto and burned 6,000 hectares, approximately 1,500 of which were within the Alvão Natural Park (PNA).
In the municipality of Vila Real, the fire affected seven parishes and 30 localities.
