- Blaze affected nearly an acre of land close to two reservoirs in island’s southwest
- Unnamed British citizen said to have admitted accidentally starting fire near tent
- He now faces maximum prison sentence of up to five years if formally convicted
The blaze (pictured) affected nearly an acre of land between two reservoirs in the southwest of the island
A British man has been arrested on suspicion of starting a forest fire on the holiday island of Gran Canaria.
The blaze affected nearly an acre of land between two reservoirs in the southwest of the island.
The unnamed 55-year-old held by police reportedly owned up at the scene after being quizzed by officers following a tip-off from locals.
He is said to have admitted accidentally starting the fire while cooking near his tent in the area.
The blaze broke out around 5.30pm local time yesterday in a spot known as Piedra Camello between the Soria and Las Ninas reservoirs.
The suspect reportedly had charcoal and ash stains over his clothes when police located him.
He now faces a maximum prison sentence of up to five years if formally accused and convicted.
He is expected to be released on bail pending an ongoing judicial investigation after appearing before a magistrate in a closed court hearing.
Las Ninas reservoir – Presa de las Ninas in Spanish – is more than 2,000 feet above sea level and is visited by hundreds of tourists and locals every week.
People who go there swim, fish and even organise barbecues with friends and family.
The arrest was made by Civil Guard officers. Experts said the fire had not spread any further because of the weather conditions and rapid intervention by the authorities. Pictured: The fire
Soria Reservoir is larger and is surrounded by stunning countryside with magnificent palm trees.
The dam reservoir is near to a restaurant which offers local delicacies.
The arrest was made by Civil Guard officers. Experts said the fire had not spread any further because of the weather conditions and rapid intervention by the authorities.
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