Greek authorities arrest 13 people after the fire
Greek authorities arrested 13 people this Saturday after fireworks launched from a yacht caused a forest fire on the island of Hydra, south of Athens. The fire affected the only pine forest on the island, which is located in a place with difficult access and no road. The island’s fire brigade has explained that the operation to control the fire has been complicated, since they had to reach the pine forest by sea and with helicopters to throw water.
Legal actions against those responsible
The mayor of the island, Giorgos Koukoudakis, has expressed his outrage and has promised to take legal action against those responsible for the fire.
Detainees of Greek nationality
According to the statement issued by the island’s authorities, the thirteen detainees are of Greek nationality and will be presented to the prosecutor’s office.
Tougher penalties for arson
Greece has toughened its penalties for arson because of the many cases of arson that have occurred in recent years. Those responsible could face up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to 200,000 euros.
Other fires in Greece
This fire on the island of Hydra coincides with a time of widespread fires in Greece. During this week, dozens of outbreaks have occurred in forest environments throughout the archipelago and peninsula. These fires have caused damage and even the loss of a human life.
Caution due to fire risk
Civil Protection has called for extreme caution due to the very high risk of fires, especially in the Attica region, the Peloponnese peninsula and central Greece.
High temperatures and dryness
High temperatures and the danger of drought make the summer in Greece adverse. This past winter was the warmest on record in the country’s history, and temperatures above 44 degrees have already been recorded in some places.
