The Poltawa Firebug Threatens Again with Arson: Police Have Identified the Person.

According to ТСН: In Poltawa, the 'fiery' criminal who terrorized residents of high-rises for years is once again in the spotlight. Recently, police received a worrying call with threats about a new wave of arson.

According to information from the Poltava Criminal Police, on January 8, the police received an anonymous call. An unknown person reported the intention to set fire to the apartments of local residents. Officers responded quickly and identified the 'telephone terrorist'.

It turned out to be a 49-year-old local man well-known to law enforcement. This is Vitaliy Tshepurko, known by the nickname 'Poltawa Firebug'.

"Regarding the incident, the police drew up administrative reports under Article 173 of the Code of Ukraine on administrative offenses (minor hooliganism). The materials were submitted to the court," said the police.

Currently, the police emphasize that these are only verbal threats; physical arson has not been established.

Criminal Biography of the 'Celebrity'

The individual has an impressive record — 14 criminal convictions. Most of them are related to thefts, but he gained 'fame' due to his passion for fire.

In 2007, Poltawa experienced a series of crimes — within two months, 28 entrances were damaged. The perpetrator set the entrance doors of the apartments on fire, endangering people's lives.

Over time, not only living spaces but also vehicles became his targets. The last time he was sentenced in 2018 for the arson of Nissan and 'Tawria' vehicles — 3.5 years in prison.

The court will ultimately assess the current incident involving the telephone threats and adequately evaluate the actions of this repeat offender.