World · 14 August 2026
Nearly 500 arrested in France over summer wildfires
French authorities have detained 474 people, including 183 minors, since 1 July on suspicion of starting wildfires, with about 70% believed to be deliberate. Firefighters across Europe are tackling fierce blazes during a record-breaking heatwave, with many areas seeing temperatures over 35C. A 15-year-old boy was detained regarding a fire near Bordeaux airport in July which resulted in the deaths of two firefighters.
Reported by Guardian · How we write briefs