42-year-old man arrested over forest fire in Montalegre subject to weekly reporting
Suspect accused of setting fire in Solveira on 18 August appeared for first hearing at Montalegre Court. PJ indicates fire consumed approximately six thousand square metres.
Suspect in Solveira fire subject to weekly reporting after hearing
A 42-year-old man arrested on suspicion of starting a forest fire in Solveira, in Montalegre municipality, has been ordered to report weekly to a police station, the Judiciary Police (PJ) announced on Friday. According to Correio da Manhã, the arrest was made outside of flagrante delicto.
The suspect appeared on Friday for his first judicial hearing at Montalegre Court, where he was ordered to report weekly to the police station in his area of residence.
Fire started with lighter on 18 August
The PJ disclosed on Thursday in a statement that the fire in question occurred on 18 August in Solveira, in the north of Vila Real district. The investigation established that the flames were likely started by direct flame, probably a lighter.
The man is "strongly suspected" of committing a forest fire crime. The fire consumed an area of approximately six thousand square metres of herbaceous vegetation and scrubland of brambles.
Firefighters and aircraft brought flames under control
According to the PJ, the "swift intervention of firefighters and an aircraft" made it possible to "bring the flames under control" before the fire spread. The PJ added that, "had it reached larger proportions, it would have endangered the entire surrounding area, comprising chestnut and oak stands and other tree and shrub species, as well as several homes and agricultural warehouses".
Investigation continues under Public Prosecution direction
The arrest was conducted by the Criminal Investigation Department of Vila Real of the PJ, with the collaboration of the Working Group for Reducing Ignitions in the Northern Interior. The investigation continues under the direction of the Public Prosecution Office in Montalegre.
Source: Correio da Manhã