On Tuesday, four separate vegetation fires blazed on the slopes of Table Mountain.
The City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Services, along with Table Mountain National Parks and Working on Fire firefighters, battled the fires. Three helicopters also water bombed the blazes to bring them under control.
A 40-year-old male was arrested, and was found in possession of petrol as well as other fire-making equipment.
According to Mayoral Committee Member for Safety, Security and Social Services, Alderman JP Smith, the perpetrator was clearly identified by people present on the mountain. The man made a great deal of noise, and made no effort to conceal himself.
“We are happy that he was arrested quickly and with all the evidence in hand. Imagine if the wind was stronger and his fire trapped some hikers on the mountain slopes,” Smith said. “This could have had deadly consequences. We hope that the criminal justice system will deal with him swiftly and take his dangerous crime seriously.”
According to reports, the man was clearly agitated and appeared to be in a distressed state. He was also shouting loudly, drawing attention to himself.
Smith also noted that the man may have been suffering from some sort of emotional disorder or breakdown.
It is unclear whether the suspect is fit to appear in court.
2018-04-04 07:22:52: We are open. Temperature at the top is warm, wind strength is light, visibility good #tmweather
— Table Mountain C/Way (@TableMountainCa) April 4, 2018
#TableMountain #TableMountainFire @cptfrs @wo_fire pic.twitter.com/2pTHmg8qyr
— Danelle de Wet (@Danelle_deWet) April 3, 2018
Picture: Pixabay