Further arrests made in relation to arson in grounds of Malmesbury Abbey

The incident happened on Friday June 3 – three bins were set alight which caused some damage to an exterior wall of the building.

 

A 16-year-old boy was previously arrested on suspicion of arson following the incident and has been released on bail.

 

Yesterday, we arrested two boys aged 13 and 15, and a 15 year old girl. Another 15-year-old girl has also been interviewed in relation to the incident.

 

The 15-year old boy arrested on suspicion of arson has also been arrested on suspicion of various counts of taking vehicles without consent, alongside two 13-year-old boys and a 13-year-old girl. This relates to a number of incidents involving the theft of quad bikes and tractors in the Garsdon area at the beginning of this week All have been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

 

Insp James Brain said: “I know this incident caused a lot of concern within the local community and I hope this latest develop sends a message of reassurance to the residents of Malmesbury that we continue to conduct enquiries and take action to target those responsible.”

 

Next week, Insp Brain will be attending two street briefings alongside Malmesbury Town Council for residents to share concerns and ask questions in relation to the ongoing anti-social behaviour in the town. The briefings will be held in Malmesbury Abbey at 3.30pm and Newnton Grove at 6pm on Monday 11 July.

 

Anyone with information in relation to the arson or thefts of vehicles should call 101 and quote crime reference number 54220057246.