According to the PJ, the suspect allegedly set fires on the 18th and last Tuesday in the areas of Casais (Monchique), Vale da Ribeira, Arão, and Canafachal (Portimão), and in Bensafrim (Lagos).

The suspect "set the fires using a direct flame" in areas composed of scrubland, small trees, and sugarcane, between 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm, the time of day when temperatures are higher and humidity is lower, the police specified.

The fires "only avoided more serious consequences" due to the alert given by the public and the quick intervention of the firefighters, the statement reads.

According to the PJ, the man allegedly used a relative's motorcycle, which allowed him to quickly travel and leave the areas where he started the fires.

After the fires, the Judiciary Police were called, and inspectors from the Portimão Criminal Investigation Department (DIC) collected "relevant elements" of evidence that resulted in the suspect's arrest.

According to the PJ, the motives behind the suspect's actions are unknown, adding that he has no criminal record for similar crimes.