Suspected Vandalism Leads To Fires In Four Different Zones Of Aħrax Nature Reserve
Santa Marija’s public holiday saw alarming reports emerging from Mellieħa’s Aħrax reserve yesterday. At around 5pm, fires broke out in four distinct zones of the woodlands, all erupting almost simultaneously, engulfing vast areas of the protected region.
Federazzjoni Kaccaturi Nassaba Konservazzjonisti (FKNK), which oversees the reserve, was quick to note the suspicious nature of these fires. Given the unusual timing, there is growing speculation that these fires may have been an outcome of deliberate acts of vandalism.
Videos circulating on various platforms capture the disturbing imagery of the fires, shedding light on the scale of devastation.
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The FKNK expressed concerns that such potential acts might have been an attempt to damage the rich natural environment that the reserve is known for. Repercussions of these fires are expected to last for years, with habitats requiring significant time and effort to revive.
In response to the fires, volunteer members from the Mellieħa Sub-Committee immediately rushed to the scene to assist in containment efforts. They worked alongside officials from the Civil Protection Department, ensuring the safety of the environment and neighboring regions. The scene was also attended by representatives from the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) and local law enforcement officers.
The FKNK has issued a public appeal, urging anyone with information related to these fires or potential acts of vandalism to step forward.
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