A 39-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday for accidentally causing a fire while clearing a brush area in Fornos de Algodres, Guarda.
The National Republican Guard (GNR) determined that the fire ignited “during brush clearing conducted using a brush cutter,” according to a statement sent to newsrooms.
“During this action, the suspect unintentionally caused a fire,” the note stated.
The man was made a defendant, and the facts were reported to the Celorico da Beira Judicial Court.
This action was taken by the Territorial Command of Guarda, through the Environmental Protection Unit (NPA) of the Territorial Detachment of Gouveia.
The GNR also assured continued vigilance 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 protection of people and property, in the context of rural fires, remains a priority for the GNR, supported by preventive actions and patrolling efforts in forest areas,” it added.
A man was arrested on Wednesday, July 30, after confessing to being the author of a forest fire that broke out in the locality of Casal de Santo António in Pombal.
Notícias ao Minuto | 12:06 – 30/07/2025
The security force recalled that “burning and fires are the main causes of fires in Portugal,” and “the execution of fires, pile burning, and bonfires is prohibited whenever there is a ‘very high’ or ‘maximum’ level of rural fire danger, being dependent on authorization or prior communication at other times.”
“To avoid accidents, follow the safety rules, always be accompanied, and carry your mobile phone,” it advised.
The GNR also emphasized its “daily concern for environmental and animal protection” through the Nature and Environment Protection Service (SEPNA). The public is encouraged to use the SOS Environment and Territory Line (808 200 520), which operates “around the clock for reporting infractions or clarifying doubts.”
