Juvenile Suspect Accused of Starting Multiple Fires in Fafe, Portugal
In the municipality of Fafe, northern Portugal, a 14-year-old boy has confessed to starting several fires in local communities over recent summers. The boy, from Seidões, has been linked to fires in the parishes of Seidões, Ardegão, and Arnozela.
The authorities in Portugal have arrested 52 people suspected of arson this summer, most within the same month. The case has been transferred to the Public Prosecutor's Office and will be handled by the Family and Juvenile Court.
The fires caused deep concern among local residents. The chosen locations for the fires had a high risk of spreading due to the region's dense forest areas, steep terrain, and abundant dry vegetation. The boy is suspected of sparking fires systematically, sometimes on a daily basis, which destroyed several hectares of forest.
The fires started in forested areas and were often set while the boy was on his scooter. After setting fires, the boy would return home to hide. This case highlights the disturbing reality of deliberate arson in vulnerable communities in Portugal.
The authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the teen may have acted with others in the arson cases. A series of wildfires in the summer of previous years in the municipality of Fafe, impacting the parishes of Seidões, Ardegão, and Arnozela, were systematically started by an unidentified arsonist; no specific individual has been publicly confirmed as responsible.
Meanwhile, cooler weather has brought some relief, but the risk of fire remains high. The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) continues to place the interior and southern regions at maximum and very high risk of fire.
Elsewhere in Portugal, over 400 firefighters, 140 vehicles, and six aircraft have been deployed to fight the fire in Rebordelo, in the municipality of Vinhais. Much of the fire's perimeter in Rebordelo is under control, but one front remains difficult to access. One of the largest active fires this week is in Rebordelo.
Wildfires in Portugal are often linked to weather extremes and dry conditions. This summer, the authorities have been particularly busy dealing with arson cases. The authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
