Police investigating a number of arsons in the Alveston area have arrested five young men as part of their enquiries.
Since July 2009 there have been 15 incidents reported of bins, bushes, fences, a vehicle and even outbuildings being set alight. Thankfully no one has been hurt.
The neighbourhood team has been working with the fire and rescue service, local residents, councillors and schools as well as stepping up patrols to tackle the issue.
Neighbourhood Inspector Deryck Rees said: “While the problem has decreased in the past few weeks we continue to work hard to resolve it. Starting fires like this could put lives at risk by delaying the fire service from real emergencies.
“We are grateful for the support of the local community but do need them to continue passing on information which we can use as evidence bring the person or people responsible to justice.”
Insp Rees said police had stepped up uniformed and plain-clothed patrols of the affected area and alerted Neighbourhood Watch.
Avon Fire and Rescue Service is to visit local schools to reinforce anti-arson messages and police have also been in contact with the schools.
A 19-year-old man has been bailed pending further enquiries. Three 16-year-old youths have all been granted police bail with conditions including a night-time curfew and not to associate with each other. One of the three has been barred from Alveston.
A second 19-year-old man was released without charge.
Source: Avon and Somerset Police
