Fátima arson suspect arrested by Polícia Judiciária

The Polícia Judiciária (PJ) has arrested a 52-year-old man suspected of starting two forest fires in the Boleiros area of Fátima, in the Ourém municipality. The fires occurred in September and October in a forested region containing cork oaks, eucalyptus, and scrubland.

Investigators believe the suspect used matches to ignite the fires near his residence. Authorities noted that the fires did not cause more severe damage due to the rapid intervention of firefighting teams. The investigation is also exploring whether the individual is linked to other forest fires in the same region this year, citing similarities in the ‘spatio-temporal pattern and modus operandi’.

A source from the Leiria Criminal Investigation Department indicated that the suspect has a criminal record and has previously served prison time, though not for arson. The suspect allegedly acted for ‘futile motives’ and will be presented to judicial authorities to determine coercive measures.