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Three people have now been arrested after a total of eight dogs were killed in a deliberate kennel fire in Rhymney.

Seven dogs, of various breeds, were burned to death in the blaze after having petrol poured on them. A further dog died later.

Emergency services were called to the fire in Brynhyfryd in the early hours of Sunday, July 17.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer, the kennels owner, Emma Frowen, said a third person has been arrested, following two arrests by police on the weekend.

Caerphilly Observer has contacted Gwent Police for more details on the latest arrest.

Emma said she could not understand why people would commit such a horrendous crime.

“We’re still in a state of shock”, she said. “To douse dogs in petrol and burn them…I hope they get life”, Emma added.

In a statement issued on Wednesday July 20, before the third arrest, Gwent Police said it was called to the address in Brynhyfryd, Rhymney, at around 2am after reports of a fire.

The force said: “A section of land, including outbuildings was set alight and officers from the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service have confirmed that the fire was deliberately started.

“A number of kennels at the address were damaged in the fire, resulting in the death of eight dogs.

“We’ve arrested two people – a 25-year-old man from the Rhymney area and a 17-year-old boy from the Tredegar area on suspicion of criminal damage by arson.”

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

Asked about what the family’s plans are moving forward, Emma said: “The community response has been unbelievable. Everyone has offered to help us rebuild the kennels free of charge.

“It’s still too early to say if we are going to build back as right now our focus is on clearing away the rubble. We’re devastated.”

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Mark Hobrough 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.”

People with information can call Gwent Police on 101 or message on social media, quoting log reference 2200238648.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.