The arsonist attacked on a scooter. Further details are emerging regarding the arrest, carried out by the Forestry and Environmental Protection Corps, of Christian Loi , a thirty-year-old local resident, believed to be responsible for five fires set between July 16th and September 1st within the pine forest between Terralba and Arborea.
The fires were started during the "Period of High Danger for Forest Fires," on days characterized by orange and red danger codes, and had exposed homes, farms, infrastructure, roads, and the seaside village of Marceddì, particularly busy during the summer, to extremely serious risk.
Thanks to the timely intervention of the regional fire prevention system (Cfva, Agenzia Forestas, volunteers, firefighters and, in some cases, even aircraft), all the fires were intercepted and quickly extinguished: in total, only one hectare was reduced to ashes.
The investigation was initiated and conducted by the Marrubiu Forestry Station, with the support of the Forestry Police Investigative Unit of the Oristano Inspectorate Service, under the coordination of the Oristano Public Prosecutor's Office.
Surveys were conducted at the ignition points and interviews were conducted with people familiar with the situation. Patrols were also organized and video surveillance was used.
One of the key clues to identifying the arsonist came on September 1st: Loi was filmed riding a scooter and stopping along Highway 6 West, setting fire to the vehicle, and quickly driving away. Investigations have attributed all five incidents to this single individual, who apparently acted with the deliberate aim of destroying the coastal pine forest. He is currently being held in Massama.
Michele Chessa, Director of the Oristano Forestry Corps' territorial service, stated: "This operation demonstrates the Forestry Corps' extremely high level of professionalism, investigative expertise, and dedication. We have prevented extremely serious consequences for the environment and the safety of citizens. Our commitment to protecting the territory continues with determination, thanks to teamwork and collaboration with the judicial authorities."
(Unioneonline/E.Fr.)