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A 55-year-old Cuban identified as Ernesto "N." was arrested on January 15, accused of starting a fire in the Mexican state of Chiapas.
The arrest was carried out by members of the Municipal Police of Tapachula while they were conducting preventive patrols in the area of Puerto Madero, a coastal community in Chiapas.
The detention occurred around 9:20 in the morning when the agents were passing through Calzada Escolleras and noticed an individual who reacted aggressively to their presence.
According to the official report -quoted by the local press- the individual adopted an "evasive and aggressive attitude," hurling insults at the officers.
This prompted his immediate detention for the probable offense of resisting private individuals, and he was placed at the disposal of the Public Prosecutor's Office, which will determine his legal status.
He is linked to a fire that occurred the day before
Although he was initially arrested for his behavior towards the authorities, it soon became known that Ernesto is also being investigated for his alleged involvement in an act of vandalism that occurred the day before, January 14.
That day, several witnesses reportedly saw him setting fire to four garbage containers in different areas of Puerto Madero, which caused "social alarm" and "put municipal assets, the environment, and the safety of the population at risk," according to local media such as El Orbe.
The fire of the containers not only caused material damage but also required the mobilization of municipal resources for its control and containment, in addition to putting nearby residents and structures at risk.
The authorities have not yet clarified whether the incident was intentional or if there are additional people involved.
Possible legal consequences: Up to 40 years in prison
The criminal legislation of the state of Chiapas is clear regarding this type of act.
Attacking municipal heritage is considered a serious crime and can be punished with sentences of up to 40 years in prison, depending on the extent of the damage caused.
In addition, the burning of solid waste generates a negative environmental impact, and the state Penal Code also includes penalties for pollution caused by fires, including imprisonment, fines, and the obligation to repair environmental damage.
"The environmental pollution caused by fires is classified as a crime," recalled the statement issued by the authorities following the arrest.
The case has been addressed firmly by local authorities, who have emphasized their intention to enforce the law without concessions.
Official representatives reiterated that "there will be no impunity" in this case, and that should the detained individual be confirmed to be criminally responsible, an exemplary punishment will be imposed for crimes that affect both public infrastructure and the natural environment of the region.
The municipal government reaffirmed its commitment to the citizens
"Timely follow-up will be given to the corresponding investigations, reaffirming the institutional commitment to protect the citizens, the environmental surroundings, and the public goods of Tapachula."
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any acts of vandalism. They reiterated that in the event of any suspicion of damage to public property or the environment, citizens can report it through the emergency number 911.
Puerto Madero, part of the municipality of Tapachula, is a strategic port and tourist area in southern Mexico. Although incidents of this nature are not commonly reported, the burning of containers in such a sensitive environment has raised alarms and strengthened surveillance in the area.
So far, no further details have been provided regarding the possible reasons for the Cuban's detention, his immigration status, or whether there are any prior instances of similar behavior.
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