Three suspects have been arrested for allegedly setting forest fires in Cinfães (Viseu district) and in Felgueiras and Maia (Porto district), between Wednesday and Thursday.
In Cinfães, a 25-year-old man was detained on suspicion of committing at least one act of forest arson in the municipality, according to the PJ.
“The ignition was caused by direct flame, and given the maximum fire danger index in that area, it progressed quickly, posing a risk to a significant forest area as well as several buildings, mainly residences at the forest’s edge and interior,” stated the PJ.
“The investigation found that the motive for the crime was revenge, following an altercation the suspect, a resident of the area, had the previous day with a neighbor,” it added.
In Maia, a 48-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being responsible for at least one forest fire in late July in Moreira.
The PJ clarified that the ignition occurred “using a direct flame on some papers to enhance the development, and it progressed rapidly, considering the high fire danger index in that area.”
“A significant forest area was at risk, as well as several industrial facilities on the edge and inside the said area,” emphasized the PJ.
In Felgueiras, a 49-year-old man was detained on suspicion of starting at least two forest fires on Sunday in Macieira da Lixa and Caramos.
According to the PJ, the ignitions were caused by direct flame and progressed rapidly, consuming approximately 1.5 hectares of eucalyptus and shrub-covered forest area.
The two fire sources in question also endangered a “very significant” forest area, as well as several buildings, primarily residences on the edge of that area.
