Two charged with arson amid fire bans in Manitoba: RCMP

More Manitoba communities have implemented fire bans due to warm, dry weather.

Two people have been charged with arson after allegedly starting fires that got out of control in different areas of Manitoba amid fire bans.

Manitoba RCMP arrested two people on Wednesday in separate incidents where controlled burns became unmanageable.

One incident took place in Lake Manitoba First Nation and resulted in a 55-year-old man from the community being charged. RCMP said the burn created a wildfire that spread to over 200 acres.

The second incident happened in Fort Alexander and saw a 46-year-old charged. RCMP said the fire damaged a residence and a shed.

The charges have not been proven in court.

“These fires could have been prevented and should not have been started. Lives and communities are being put at risk,” Cpl. Melanie Roussel of the Manitoba RCMP said in a statement. “Our officers will strictly enforce all laws related to burning restrictions that are in place across the province; this is for the safety of all Manitobans.”

Fire bans in southeast Manitoba and the Interlake came into effect May 2 due to dry conditions.