Chile arrests firefighters and forest rangers suspected of causing forest fires

Two suspects were charged with arson that led to a series of wildfires across central and northern Chile on May 24, the Chilean National Prosecutor’s Office said. A court in the city of Valparaíso ordered them to be held in pretrial detention on May 25.

The aftermath of a forest fire in Chile's Valparaiso region, February 6. Photo: AFP

At least 137 people died in fires that spread across central and northern Chile in February, displacing 16,000 people and damaging more than 9,800 buildings, according to Chilean government figures.

According to estimates by the Center for Integrated Disaster Risk Management Research in Chile, this is one of the largest disasters recorded in the country in the past 30 years.

On May 25, regional prosecutor Claudia Perivancich said investigators had evidence that the two suspects had plotted to "carry out this type of act."

Local media reported that the suspect, a 22-year-old firefighter, had joined the volunteer fire service a year and a half ago. His motive was not immediately clear. Another suspect said the act was financially motivated.

Prosecutor Osvaldo Ossandon said arson materials were found in the firefighter's home.

Prosecutors have requested a six-month investigation, and have not ruled out the possibility of other suspects being involved.

Ngoc Anh (according to CNN, AFP)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/chile-bat-linh-cuu-hoa-va-kiem-lam-nghi-gay-ra-chay-rung-lam-137-nguoi-chet-post296943.html