Emergency Services
Man Arrested on Suspicion of Arson
Formerly owned by Trevor Baines, a fire ripped through the long empty house on Friday evening just after 6pm.
Police have arrested a man on suspicion of arson after a fire at Africa House last week.
The man has subsequently been bailed.
Formerly owned by Trevor Baines, a fire ripped through the long empty house on Friday evening just after 6pm. It was bought at auction after his conviction for money laundering.
A police spokesperson said: ‘Upon attendance The Isle of Man Fire Service suspected the fire to be deliberate and that it had been burning for at least an hour prior to the Mutli Agency Response.
‘Following a number of enquiries, Police can confirm a male was arrested on suspicion of Arson. He was subsequently given Police Station Bail in order to allow for further enquiries to be conducted.
‘As Police and IOM Fire Service continue to investigate the fire at Africa House, Douglas, we are putting out a further appeal for anyone who was either in the area at the time or anyone with any information that may assist. We are also appealing for any dash cam or ring doorbell footage that may have captured any person(s) within the area at the material time.
‘The property remains in a dangerous condition so we again are strongly urging the public not to enter the grounds of the property or the property itself.’
If anyone has any information at all, they are asked to contact the CID department at Police Headquarters or alternatively; you can also provide information anonymously to the Independent Isle of Man Charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
