A 14-year-old boy admitted deliberately igniting forest fires in Portugal using matches and a scooter.
Police suspect he caused blazes in Seidões, Ardegão, and Arnozela.
The boy said frustration from poor school results and social difficulties motivated his actions.
Authorities Investigate Arson Pattern
Police launched an investigation after repeated wildfires broke out in the same locations.
The Polícia Judiciária said the boy may have acted alone or as part of a group.
Braga Judicial Police submitted the case to the Public Prosecutor’s Office for Family and Children’s Court.
Dozens Arrested Amid Summer Fires
By 20 August, authorities had arrested 52 people suspected of arson, mostly in August, according to Lusa.
Officials said parishes suffered repeated daily fires that consumed hectares and alarmed local residents.
Vinhais Fire Remains the Most Dangerous
Emergency services reported 97 active fires on Friday, with most under control and being extinguished.
The Vinhais fire burned on three fronts, one difficult to access, prompting deployment of 400 firefighters.
Authorities used 140 vehicles and six planes to contain the blaze.
Firefighting Efforts Benefit from Cooler Temperatures
Temperatures dropped last week, aiding firefighting operations, while Friday saw highs between 14 and 32 Celsius.
IPMA issued maximum alert for the country’s interior and south due to extreme wildfire risk.
