More than a dozen arson incidents around Deeside in last few weeks – Police appeal for info

Police are appealing for information after more than a dozen incidents in the Deeside and Flintshire area’s over the past five weeks, the majority have been in Shotton and Connah’s Quay.

Many of incidents have occurred between late at night and the early hours of the Morning.

Wheelie bins and refuse skips being have been torched as well as grass set on fire, a vehicle was also burnt out on North Street in Shotton in the early hours of 16th August.

The latest arson incidents include a garden fence set alight at around 3.30am on September 6 in Meadowbank, Holywell, trees set alight in Rowley Drive, Shotton at 4.30pm on September 7 and a field of straw burnt in Sealand around 10pm on September 7.

 Sgt Lee Woodworth said:

“We are determined to find those responsible for these extremely dangerous and damaging crimes. We are currently running a high visibility patrolling plan and deploying officers in key areas.

“We are working with the neighbourhood wardens, street scene and North Wales Fire and rescue Service.

 “As yet no arrests have been made, but we believe local youths maybe involved. I am also in no doubt that there are residents in Shotton, Connah’s Quay and other parts of Flintshire who know who is responsible.

 I would urge them to contact police before someone is hurt.”

Inspector Ceri Hawe said: “We are looking to prevent these types of incidents through a multitude of actions, which include working with the culprits to educate them, to prevent reoffending and to target-harden areas of concern. Community intelligence and working with our partners are key tactics in dealing with this issue”.

Councillor Kevin Jones, Cabinet Member for Waste Strategy, Public Protection and Leisure said:

“I would ask any residents who have information to contact the police as soon as possible. Protecting residents and their property from arson attacks is the main priority and hopefully the people who have committed these crimes will be caught as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information which may assist police investigations is asked to call 101.