The Mayor of Calasparra, Jose Velez, has announced increased security measures in the Sierras around the town following confirmation that the fires over the weekend were arson.
The Fire Investigation Unit of Environmental Crimes (Brida) has announced that the fires in Calasparra and Moratall were deliberate. In the three areas: San Miguel, Cañaverosa and Architana, investigators found “clear evidence” of arson and have “completely discounted that the fires were caused naturally, accidently or neligently.”
The fire on San Miguel was started on Friday at 8.36pm and on Saturday the fires in Calasparra and Moratalla were started at 9.45pm and 10.15pm. All the fires were extinguished in 48 hours.
The worst damage was caused on San Miguel with 13.5 hectares burned. At Cañaverosa-El Campillo 11.8 hectares were lost and at Architana some 1.5 hectares were burned. At Calasparra Station the fire was put out before any real damage was done.
Speaking on Radio Calasparra the Mayor declared his concern and revulsion for the work of the arsonists and indicated that more security cameras would be placed in vulnerable spots and that there would be more patrols by local police.
He added that in the next few days there would be a meeting with the fire service technicians when he would ask for a specific plan for Calasparra.
YOUNGSTERS SET OLIVE ALIGHT
In a separate incident several minors were arrested on Saturday after they had set an olive tree alight in an agricultural area near the old town, La Celadilla.
The incident occurred near the Los Santos Church, during the open air mass on Saturday evening in honour of the Patron Saints of Calasparra, and caused panic and anxiety amongst those in attendance.
The fire was rapidly extinguished.
