Arson on the rise in Dumfries & Galloway

Arson is on the increase in Dumfries & Galloway, according to the latest Scottish Fire and Rescue Service figures.

The statistics, which were revealed in a report to Dumfries and Galloway Council's Annandale and Eskdale Area Committee, showed the number of deliberate fires has increased 21 per cent in 2018/2019 compared to the previous year.

The figures were broken down into council ward areas. Lochar and North West Dumfries reported the most, with 18 and 17 incidents respectively, out of a total 91 deliberate fires.

The report says: “Deliberate Primary Fires remain a key priority for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in Dumfries and Galloway.

“The Scottish Fire Rescue Service will continue to build on the established links with partner agencies in Police Scotland, Criminal Justice, Schools and Social Services in the Annandale and Eskdale Area.”