A 51-year-old man was arrested for forest fire-related crimes on August 26 in Rio Tinto, Gondomar. The Polícia Judiciária (PJ) announced on Thursday, September 11, that the man, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, ignited the fire using a direct flame.
The blaze posed a threat to both the significant forest area and nearby residences. The suspect, who has no prior criminal record, is scheduled for an initial judicial hearing to determine appropriate legal measures.
The fire coincided with a day marked by a very high rural fire risk index. According to the PJ, only the “early alert and rapid intervention” of the Areosa Rio Tinto Volunteer Fire Department ensured the fire’s containment.
