Fire Crew Attacked In Glenrothes

The crew had been responding to a wheelie bin fire when it was attacked by a group of youths

Published 30th Apr 2015

An investigation's been launched in Glenrothes after callous thugs attacked firefighters as they tried to put out a blaze.

A number of youths threw whatever items they could find at them as crews tackled a series of deliberately set wheelie bin fires in woods at Poplar road on Friday evening.

Station Manager Graham Arnott said:

“Attacks on emergency responders are completely unacceptable and I am sure the public would be outraged by this incident where their firefighters have been targeted while working to protect people and property.

“Those responsible should know that the authorities take their mindless criminal actions extremely seriously and we work closely with police to ensure they are identified and held to account. “We will continue our efforts to bring about a reduction in these mindless actions from a small number of individuals.

"As an organisation we have a duty of care towards our employees and are committed to protecting our frontline staff who work in challenging circumstances to make communities safer.”

Glenrothes Community Sergeant Kenny Greig said:

“A number of wheelie bins belonging to local people were set alight, however, thanks to the quick response of the fire service, the damage was contained. "Officers are now conducting local enquiries to identify those responsible for this crime and anyone with information that can assist with these investigations is asked to come forward.

"These fires had the potential to put the public, including those responsible, in serious danger and I would remind those responsible that what may seem a prank is a serious criminal offence and if caught you will be charged and reported.

"Anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious outside either premises over the weekend is asked to contact police immediately, anonymously if they wish or by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."