A 54-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of arson, assaulting a police officer, and driving while unfit through drink following a string of car fires that broke out across several streets in Folkestone and Hythe in the early hours of this morning.

Between 2:00 AM and 3:30 AM, emergency services were called to multiple vehicle fires in the areas of Canterbury Road, Walton Road, Military Road, Enbrook Valley, and Whitenbrook.

Fire crews from Kent Fire and Rescue Service worked through the night to extinguish the blazes, which caused significant damage to several vehicles. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.

Swift Arrest After Spate of Fires

Shortly after the incidents were reported, Kent Police arrested a man from Folkestone in connection with the fires. He was also arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer during the arrest and driving while under the influence of alcohol.

The suspect is currently in custody as investigations continue.

Police Statement

A Kent Police Source said:

“A 54-year-old man from Folkestone has been arrested following a series of vehicle fires during the early hours of Friday, 11 April. The man was detained on suspicion of arson, assaulting an emergency worker, and driving while unfit through drink.

He remains in custody while enquiries are ongoing.”

Appeal for Information

Kent Police are appealing to the public for any information or CCTV footage that may assist their investigation. Residents in the affected areas are urged to check home security or doorbell cameras between 2:00 AM and 3:30 AM for any suspicious activity.

Anyone with information should contact Kent Police on 101, quoting reference 11/04/25 – Vehicle Fires, or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

This is a developing story, and updates will follow as the investigation progresses.