A forest fire was reported on Friday in Felgueiras, prompting immediate action by the military officers of the Guarda, who conducted police procedures that quickly led to the identification and interception of a suspect.
The GNR explained in a statement, “During the operation, it was determined that the fire resulted from an unauthorized burning of debris conducted by the suspect, which spiraled out of control after being ignited with a lighter.”
This operation resulted in the suspect’s arrest by the GNR officers from the Torre de Moncorvo Environmental Protection Unit (NPA) while committing the act.
The arrested individual has been named a defendant and will appear in court at the Torre de Moncorvo Judicial Court this Monday for the imposition of coercive measures.
The GNR emphasized its continued vigilance in preventing and combating rural fires, actively contributing to the criminal accountability of offenders and the protection of people, property, and natural heritage.
Protecting people and property in the context of rural fires remains a primary commitment for the GNR, supported by preventive actions and patrolling efforts in forest areas.
The GNR also reminds that burning and open fires are among the leading causes of fires in Portugal. The burning of debris piles and bonfires is prohibited when the rural fire danger level is ‘very high’ or ‘maximum,’ and is otherwise dependent on prior authorization or notification.
