Police investigate fires in Germany's Essen after some 30 injured

Two separate fires in the western German city of Essen left some 30 people injured on Saturday, including two toddlers in critical condition due to smoke inhalation, according to local authorities.

Police said a 41-year-old Syrian man from Essen had been arrested as a suspect in connection with the fires.

The man was also linked to an incident involving a van that crashed into two shops, a police spokesman said, adding that no injuries were reported from that event.

The arrest took place near the two shops. Police said they could not provide details about the suspect's background or motives.

According to police, the fires occurred in quick succession in two houses, prompting a large-scale response from emergency services.

The injured had all received medical attention and some had been taken to hospital, the police spokesman said.

Among eight seriously injured children were two toddlers whose condition remains critical due to smoke inhalation, the fire brigade said.

The police spokesman declined to comment on reports that the man had also threatened someone with a knife and a machete. Videos circulating on social media were currently being evaluated by the authorities, he added.