Firefighter accused of starting devastating wildfires 'wanted social recognition'

Prosecutors say the 37-year-old volunteer firefighter started the flames to save him from "an oppressive home environment" and because he needed of "social recognition". '

Firefighters tackle a forest fire in France in July (

Image: AFP via Getty Images

A firefighter accused of starting wildfires in France has said he craves 'social recognition', prosecutors claim.

The 37-year-old volunteer firefighter, from Hérault, was arrested by the police and taken into custody on July 27.

He admitted to having used a lighter to start the fires on May 26, July 21 and on the night of July 26 to 27, according to a statement made public by the Montpellier prosecutor's office.

Fabrice Belargent said: "When asked about his motive, he stated that he had done this in order to provoke the intervention of the fire brigade to save him from an oppressive family environment and because of the excitement that these interventions caused him.

Beachgoers in France watch the smoke produced by forest fires (

Picture:

REUTERS)

"Adrenaline, he called it - those are his own words. He also said he needed social recognition."

The accused worked for 20 years as a forest engineer and is a city councillor.

He is accused of "destroying forests, moors, scrubland or plantations belonging to others in conditions likely to expose people to physical harm".

The man could be jailed for up to 15 years if convicted and could be fined €150,000 (£125,000).