Two arrested over suspected arson following wildfire in Gwynedd

Two males have been arrested for suspected arson following a wildfire in Gwynedd over the weekend.

The males, aged 14 and 20, were arrested close to the location of the incident in Tanygrisiau on Sunday after fleeing from officers attending the scene.

Both have since been released under investigation, with enquiries ongoing into the fire which caused widespread damage to the land.

A total of ten crews from North Wales Fire and Rescue attended the incident, along with two further specialist units.

The fire was eventually brought under control on a week of high demand for the service, which saw firefighters called to serious wildfires across Gwynedd and Conwy.

Inspector Darren Kane said: “Arson is a crime. Deliberate grass fires are dangerous, unpredictable and can quickly spread out of control.

“These fires put the lives of the fire crews and public at risk. Incidents like this tie up the emergency services whose time is invariably needed elsewhere.

“Working together with NWFRS and joint arson reduction team we are appealing to anyone in the community who has information which may assist in the investigation make contact with us as soon as possible.

“If you can assist in this investigation please contact North Wales Police on 101, quoting incident reference B042648, or report anonymously via CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.”

The fires in the countryside over the weekend took place in Rhiw, Mynydd Nefyn, Trawsfynydd, Llyn Celyn, Betws Y Coed, Maentwrog and Aberdeunant.

Crews are currently still in attendance tackling the fires in Maentwrog and Aberdeunant.

Paul Scott, Senior Fire Safety Manager for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “I witnessed first hand the professionalism, commitment and resilience of our staff as I attended these devastating wildfires across South Gwynedd and into Conwy.

“While accidents can happen, there are some within our communities who are deliberately setting fire to our countryside.

“Deliberate fire setting is completely unacceptable – this is a crime for which they will be prosecuted.

“If you are out enjoying the countryside and you do come across any suspicious activity, please call CrimeStoppers anonymously, or ring 101. In an emergency, always call 999.”