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Man arrested following city arson attacks

Galya Dimitrova
BBC News
Google maps The shop front of Popeyes Louisiana Chicken restaurant on Oxford's Queen Street. Some people are outside in front of it while others are eating inside.Google maps
Popeyes Louisiana Chicken restaurant is one of the affected businesses

A 43-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson and criminal damage in Oxford city centre.

Thames Valley Police said that five separate fires had been deliberately started using rubbish put out by businesses on New Inn Hall Street, Queen Street and Cornmarket Street between 03:30GMT and 04:00GMT today.

The force said Popeyes Louisiana Chicken restaurant was one of the affected businesses.

Det Seg Matthew Gorman appealed for anyone with information or CCTV recordings to get in touch.

"I understand these arson attacks may be alarming but I want to reassure businesses and the public that we have made an arrest and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with these offences," he added.

"We are also working with the affected businesses and other traders in the city centre."

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