A MAN and a teenage boy have been arrested following a fire in which eight dogs died.

The fire broke out at around 2.10am on Sunday, July 17, at a private address in Brynhyfryd, Rhymney.

A section of land, including outbuildings, was set alight, and the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed the fire was deliberately started.

Gwent Police has confirmed that a number of kennels at the address were also damaged in the fire, resulting in the death of eight dogs.

A 25-year-old man from the Rhymney area and a 17-year-old boy from Tredegar have been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage by arson.

The man was released on conditional bail while the boy remains in police custody.

Temporary assistant chief constable (T/ACC) said: “Officers are continuing to make further enquiries at this time and there will be a significant presence of officers in this area of Caerphilly as our enquiries are ongoing.

"Please do not be alarmed.

“We’ve made two arrests at this time and while I understand that there is a lot of interest about this in our community, I would urge people to consider how their commentary particularly on social media can impact an active investigation.

“High-visibility patrols have increased in the area to provide reassurance following this report to us.

“If you have any concerns at this time, please take the time to talk to us.”

Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should call 101 or send Gwent Police a direct message on social media, quoting log reference 2200238648.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.