A 58-year-old American citizen, identified by the last name Mania, was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of starting a fire at a private property in Alajuela Province, the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) reported.

According to the OIJ, the case began July 29, when authorities received a complaint against Mania, who was suspected of starting the fire at a private property in the El Bosque community of the Peñas Blancas District, in the canton of San Ramón.

Mania allegedly arrived at the property on an ATV. Once inside the property, he allegedly set the ATV on fire.

The vehicle fire spread, damaging the home and other vehicles located on the complainants' property.

After receiving the complaint, OIJ agents investigated the incident, leading to a search operation at the suspect's property and his arrest at 6 a.m. on Wednesday.

Officers also seized several items that will be used as evidence in the investigation, including boxes of matches, bottles of alcohol, plastic gloves and other items.

Mania was taken before judicial officials at the Prosecutor's Office in Alajuela Province. He must undergo an interview with investigators and then wait for a judge to determine the pretrial measures to be imposed as he faces allegations of starting a fire at a private property and causing property damage.

Officials declined to release additional details about the case, citing the confidentiality of the ongoing investigation. The OIJ said only Mania's relatives are authorized to request further information.

According to the U.S. Embassy, American citizens arrested abroad are entitled to consular assistance. Once Costa Rican authorities notify the embassy of an arrest, a U.S. consular officer visits the detainee to check on their well-being, review the circumstances of the arrest and provide information about the local legal system, including a list of attorneys.

At the detainee's request, consular officials may also notify family members or friends, help facilitate the transfer of funds for legal or living expenses, and serve as a liaison with relatives.

However, the embassy notes that consular officers cannot provide legal representation, act as attorneys or intervene to secure the release of detained U.S. citizens.

For Americans serving lengthy prison sentences abroad, consular officers are required to conduct welfare visits at least once every three to four months.

In a separate development earlier this month, Costa Rican authorities, working in coordination with Interpol, the FBI and the U.S. Embassy, arrested a 46-year-old American man identified by the last name Dunning. He is wanted in the United States on fraud charges.

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