Bouctouche RCMP make several arrests in string of fires

The Bouctouche RCMP have now made several arrests in connection with a series of fires and acts of vandalism in the small tourist town.

Over the last two days, the Bouctouche police arrested two adults and one youth.

One adult was charged with four counts of mischief relating to graffiti and the other adult has been charged with 17 counts of gas theft and one charge of arson.

The youth has been charged with three counts of arson, arson of a vehicle, theft of a vehicle and theft of gas. Just before the Bouctouche police met with reporters on Thursday, two more youths were taken into custody and charges are pending.

RCMP spokesman Cpl. Claude Tremblay said there is a connection between the suspects and many of the fires.

"There is somewhat of a connection between the fires. Some of them are one person alone doing it. Some of the fires there are two, three individuals that are involved," Tremblay said.

Charges are expected in the fires that destroyed the iconic Le Pays de la Sagouine tourist venue and the Kent County Gun Club.

There have been roughly a dozen fires in the last several weeks in the Bouctouche area, with the RCMP estimating the total damage has topped $3 million. The destruction of the Le Pays de la Sagouine's restaurant and theatre has been estimated to be $2 million.

There is a public meeting slated for Thursday evening at the local high school. The RCMP is hoping this latest news will calm the fears of many in the community about the string of fires and vandalism.