SIX part-time firemen at the centre of a probe by detectives into hoax calls and arson have been suspended from duty.
The firemen, all based at Horwich Fire Station, have been relieved of duties until police investigations are completed.
They were arrested but later released without charge pending further inquiries after a day of questioning at Astley Bridge police station.
As revealed in the BEN on Wednesday, the firefighters were arrested following a five-month long investigation into claims that firemen were involved in hoax calls and arson to get £10 call out fees.
A brigade spokesman said: "They have been suspended from their duties as part-time firemen. That is not an implication of guilt. We have done it to protect them and the public. It is something we would do automatically."
Arrangements have been made to ensure there is cover for the suspended firemen, who worked evenings and weekends.
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