Gordion archaeological site fire suspect arrested

A suspect has been arrested after intentionally starting a fire near the Gordion archaeological site in the Polatlı district of Ankara. The fire broke out on August 10, 2026, in the Yassıhöyük neighborhood within a protected archaeological site area.

Authorities determined that the suspect, identified as Yunus Emre G., used a lighter to ignite dry grass at intervals of approximately 50 to 100 meters. The fire spread toward the Beylikköprü neighborhood, affecting roughly 250 acres of land. Firefighting teams responded to the scene and successfully brought the flames under control.

Following his apprehension, the suspect was found to be under the influence of alcohol, with a recorded level of 2.81 promille. He was subsequently referred to the Polatlı Criminal Court of Peace, where he was formally arrested on August 11, 2026.