Arson incidents reported in Punta del Este and Merlo

Two separate arson incidents have been reported in Punta del Este, Uruguay, and Merlo, Argentina.

In Punta del Este, two hooded individuals were captured on security cameras before setting a Mercedes-Benz with Brazilian license plates on fire. The perpetrators reportedly used fuel from a canister to ignite the vehicle, resulting in total loss. The fire also damaged a nearby parked car, though no injuries were reported. Police are currently investigating to identify those responsible.

In Merlo, Argentina, two young men, aged 22 and 23, were arrested following an intentional fire at the Teatro Municipal Espacio Multiarte. The fire started at the rear of the building at the intersection of Riobamba and Pasteur streets. Municipal surveillance cameras allowed authorities to track and apprehend the suspects nearby, who were found in possession of a lighter. Emergency services controlled the blaze, which resulted only in material damage as the building was unoccupied.