Three arrested for suspected arson in devastating Arnhem fire
Three men have been arrested in connection with the massive fire that ravaged Arnhem’s historic city center last week, police announced Saturday evening. Authorities suspect the fire was deliberately set.
The suspects include two Arnhem residents, ages 30 and 57, and a 41-year-old man without a fixed address. Their arrests resulted from surveillance footage and tips provided to law enforcement. The men remain in custody under full restrictions, meaning they are only allowed to communicate with their attorneys.
Arnhem Mayor Ahmed Marcouch reacted strongly to the arrests, calling the suspected arson “a heartbreaking thought.” In a statement posted on X, he said, “Many Arnhemmers lost their homes and belongings, and our city center will bear a scar forever.” He also condemned the act as “unacceptable and cowardly.”
Marcouch praised the investigative work that led to the arrests, thanking police for their “thorough and effective detective work.”
The fire, which broke out overnight between Wednesday, March 5, and Thursday, March 6, started near a side wall of the SoLow party supply store on Varkensstraat. According to multiple independent sources, it likely began when a flammable substance was thrown into or near a trash bin. The flames quickly engulfed surrounding structures, causing widespread destruction.
The blaze destroyed an entire block of residences and commercial properties, including multiple historic buildings with facades dating back around 150 years. The main building where the fire started was completely gutted and later demolished. At least 10 other buildings sustained significant damage, though some facades remained intact.
Authorities have launched a large-scale criminal investigation into the fire, with a special Major Crime Investigation Team (TGO) assigned to the case. However, forensic examination of the fire’s origin was initially delayed due to the risk of structural collapse. Investigators could only access the scene in detail on Saturday.
Police said they are considering all possible scenarios, ranging from deliberate arson to lesser forms of culpability. A spokesperson confirmed that “the investigation team is working tirelessly to map out all details.”
At least five Arnhem residents lost their homes entirely, while several dozen others remain uncertain about their return. The fire caused immense chaos and disruption in the city center, requiring emergency responders to battle the flames for over a day.
Cleanup efforts began Saturday, but the process has been complicated by the discovery of asbestos fragments during demolition work. A specialized team has been brought in to decontaminate the affected area.
Meanwhile, local businesses and residents have mobilized to support those affected. A local lunchroom has organized a supply drive, and a crowdfunding campaign has already raised more than 16,000 euros for displaced victims.
