The Overstrand Municipality says it has intensified its response to a surge in fires across the region, amid growing concerns that some may have been deliberately started.

It comes as the Overstrand area has been battling an unprecedented number of fires since November last year, with many thousands of hectares destroyed. Recently, the Stanford and Pearl Beach fires have been the biggest concern.

The blazes have resulted in severe losses to farmers, businesses and organisations, placing livelihoods and the local economy under serious threat.

The municipality said it is increasingly concerned that a number of these fires may not have occurred naturally and are suspected to have been started deliberately.

In response, Overstrand Municipality has offered a reward to anyone who can provide information leading to the arrest and successful prosecution of those responsible.

These concerns were reinforced following an incident near the Stanford graveyard on Monday evening, 12 January 2026.

According to Overstrand Municipality, at approximately 19:3,0 a member of the public noticed smoke in the area and went to investigate.

The municipality said the witness saw a female suspect jumping over a fence and immediately contacted law enforcement, while attempting to extinguish the fire until the Fire Department arrived.

The municipality confirmed that Law Enforcement officers responded to the scene and found burning cables. Based on information provided by the witness, a 23-year-old woman was located and arrested.

Overstrand Municipality said the suspect was handed over to Stanford SAPS and charged under the National Veld and Forest Fire Act (Act 101 of 1998). The cables were booked into evidence under CAS number 37/01/2026.

According to the municipality, the suspect later pointed out two additional male suspects, aged 15 and 20. Both were arrested and taken to Stanford SAPS. The case has since been handed over to the Detective Branch (CID) for further investigation.

Overstrand Municipal Manager Dean O’Neill said the incident highlights the importance of community vigilance.

“Community vigilance plays a crucial role in protecting lives, property and the environment. We appeal to the public to report any suspicious activity related to fires,” O’Neill said.

The municipality said it will continue working closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent further incidents and ensure that those responsible for deliberately setting fires are brought to justice.