Gargano National Park volunteer arrested for eight suspected forest fires

A 35-year-old Civil Protection volunteer and sanitation worker from Vieste has been arrested on suspicion of starting eight intentional forest fires in the Gargano National Park region. The fires, which occurred between July and August in the territories of Vieste and Peschici, caused significant damage to hectares of Mediterranean scrub, pine forests, and olive groves.

Investigators from the Carabinieri Forestali utilized technical surveys and video surveillance to document the suspect's movements. Footage reportedly shows the man setting fires in various wooded areas and then leaving in his vehicle. The charges include forest arson, aggravated by the extensive damage to a protected area and the violation of duties associated with his role as a fire prevention volunteer.

The arrest has drawn reactions from local officials. While regional and local leaders expressed appreciation for the police work, they also emphasized the need to protect the reputation of the volunteer community. The Gargano National Park has indicated its readiness to join the legal proceedings as a civil party to protect the affected environmental heritage. The suspect's defense maintains that he was a person of good character with no prior suspicions.