Arsonists suspected of causing Sicily wildfires

The fires, which affected the provinces of Palermo, Agrigento, Trapani and Messina, broke out at the same time, suggesting a criminal motive, investigators told Ansa.

Sicily President Rosario Crocetta told La Repubblica that he believed organized crime was behind the fires.

“How do you explain a blazing fire in Cefalù last night (Wednesday), when the temperature was 24 degrees?”, he said.

“Of course, the heat and wind then play their part. I do not have proof, but I suspect criminals were responsible because they always affect the most valuable areas around Palermo."

More details to follow.