The Civil Guard is investigating Rubén Marchamalo, Vox mayor of Robledillo de Mohernando, over the fire declared in La Mierla, Guadalajara, which has burned more than 3,000 hectares and led to the evacuation of eleven villages.
The fire originated on July 16 during harvesting work in an agricultural area. Development and Sustainability counselor Mercedes Gómez confirmed that the blaze was caused by this activity and that the Potential Propagation Index stood at a very high level at the time.
The Civil Guard has identified the investigated farmer as Rubén Marchamalo. Vox parliamentary group spokesperson in Castilla-La Mancha, Iván Sánchez, stated that the mayor was acting in accordance with the law and held all required permits.
Eleven localities have been evacuated so far, including La Mierla, Muriel, Navas de Jadraque and Zarzuela de Jadraque, with a total of 529 people moved to the Humanes sports center. The fire has advanced toward the Sierra Norte de Guadalajara natural park and has burned more than 3,483 hectares.
Extinction efforts involve 420 personnel, fifteen helicopters, ten amphibious planes and support from the Military Emergencies Unit. Mercedes Gómez warned of winds of up to 40 kilometers per hour that could worsen conditions.
