Portugal’s PJ criminal police have announced the arrest of a 29-year-old man in connection with a forest fire that broke out in Vale Covo, Loulé, on August 13. The arrest was made by PJ’s Southern Directorate on August 18.
In a statement, PJ police say the suspect is believed to have deliberately started the blaze at night using fuel and an open flame in an isolated area. At the time, soaring temperatures made the fire spread quickly, threatening both woodland and nearby homes, the statement adds.
The situation was brought under control thanks to the swift response of firefighters stationed in Barranco do Velho, who prevented the flames from causing greater damage.
Authorities confirmed that the man had previously been investigated for similar crimes. He is now due to appear before a judge for an initial hearing to determine what legal measures will be imposed.
The case is being overseen by the Public Prosecutor’s Office in Loulé.
