According to local news outlet the Républicain Lorrain, a resident of Audin-le-Tiche was caught while lighting a fire in a woodland. The man was already known to police and is believed to have started at least one of three fires that broke out at roughly the same time in the countryside on Wednesday evening. He was ultimately sent home with a fine of €275.
The frequent fires have been cause for concern among local residents. Rédange mayor Mathias Miranda expressed shock at the criminal behaviour in an interview with the Républicain Lorrain.
In general, fire fighters in France have raised the alarm given the ongoing situation with wildfires. For years they have demanded investment in recruitment and equipment, albeit without success. The recent fires in the Gironde region highlighted the deficit in staff and materials, union representatives told the press on Thursday.
In the Gironde, everything was lacking, most of all foresight. The fire brigade's emergency centres were unable to guarantee a normal service due to being overwhelmed and a lack of equipment. The unions have called for mass protests in Paris at the end of September.
