Three teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of arson after a fire broke out behind a Welsh train station and swept across the surrounding valley.
Arrests and investigation
Officers believe a fire was deliberately started behind Treherbert railway station on Sunday. Two 15-year-olds and a 13-year-old were arrested and subsequently released on police bail.
The fires in the Treherbert area have been classified as one of six category three wildfires, which represent the most significant challenge facing firefighters in the region.
Military deployment and official comments
Over 200 soldiers have been deployed to Wales to assist in battling the blazes, which have left homes and vast stretches of countryside devastated, reports Wales Online.
South Wales chief fire officer Fin Monahan, speaking on BBC Radio 4's Broadcasting House programme on Sunday, warned that "there is a real arson problem here."
"It's staggering that in our society there are people who are prepared to go out and not just light a fire, but actually put people's lives in danger," Mr Monahan said.
"This is really, really irresponsible behaviour. If there's anybody out there who knows of an arsonist, do please report them to the police because this needs to be taken very seriously."
Police statement and public appeal
A South Wales Police spokesperson confirmed: "South Wales Police is continuing to investigate a deliberate fire that was set at the rear of Treherbert railway station on Sunday August 16."
"Two 15-year-olds and one 13-year-old have been arrested and released under investigation."
"These incidents put communities at risk, can impact people's health, threaten wildlife, and divert emergency resources away from people who need us."
"Deliberately starting fires is a criminal offence. If you see suspicious behaviour or have information about deliberate fire-setting, please report it to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or the police by calling 101."
