Youths charged in connection with wilful fire-raising in Orkney

Three male youths have been charged in connection with wilful fire-raising in Orkney.

Officers were made aware of bins being set alight at Tankerness House, Broad Street, Kirkwall around 2.50pm on Sunday, 4 December, 2022.

Following enquiries, three male youths aged 13, 14 and 17 will be reported to the Children’s Reporter and Procurator Fiscal.

Inspector David Hall said: “We’ve received a number of reports of wilful fire-raisings and vandalisms in the Kirkwall area recently and I’d like to assure locals this type of behaviour will not be tolerated.

“Officers are carrying out extra patrols, providing reassurance and engaging with young people. We are also working alongside partner agencies to tackle such acts which have an impact on the wider community.

"We are committed to encouraging people away from this kind of behaviour but take appropriate action where incidents are reported and offenders identified. 

“Anyone with concerns about criminality in their area is encouraged to contact us on 101 or phone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Chair of the OIC Education, Housing and Leisure Committee, Gwenda Shearer, said: “Our thanks go to colleagues within the Police for their swift action which has led to charges being brought. Acts of vandalism such as these are mindless and spoil the enjoyment for others. We would appeal for people to think carefully about the consequences of their actions not just for others, but themselves and family members also.”