Trio questioned following spate of arson attacks and criminal damage in Bassetlaw

Investigations were launched after reports of a deliberate bin fire, an attempt to set fire to a car, and offensive graffiti painted on public buildings in Retford.

It’s believed the offences were committed between October 24-31.

Following inquiries three suspects, a 21-year-old man and two boys, aged 16 and 14, were arrested on Thursday (November 9, 2023) in connection with the reports.

The man has subsequently been interviewed on suspicion of arson and criminal damage.

The boys were arrested on suspicion of arson, attempted arson, and racially/religiously aggravated harassment.

Inspector Hayley Crawford, District Commander for Bassetlaw, said: “Any arson attack can have catastrophic consequences which is why we treat incidents like these with such seriousness.

“Bin fires can be extremely dangerous if they take hold and put lives at risk. The people who are setting these fires are also wasting the time of emergency services whose help may be needed elsewhere.

“There is absolutely no place in society for any type of hate crime. These types of incidents are taken extremely seriously by the force, and we will always investigate them robustly to catch those responsible.

“The message from Nottinghamshire Police really could not be clearer: racism has no place in our society. We will not tolerate it and we will take quick and robust action against anyone involved in incident of racism, regardless of who the abuse is targeted at or towards.”