Greece arrests two suspects for intentional arson in Aetolia‑Acarnania and Rodopi

Greek fire service investigators arrested two individuals for deliberately setting fires in western and northern Greece. In Aetolia‑Acarnania, a 50‑year‑old Greek man was detained after a June 28 blaze in the Paravola area of Agriani municipality burned about four hectares; he also admitted to three additional arsons in the same locality earlier in June.

In Rodopi, authorities apprehended a foreign national who ignited dry grass in the Isalo area of Maroneia‑Sapes municipality, destroying five hectares and damaging around 60 olive trees. The arrests were made under the self‑initiated (αυτοφωρης) procedure of the Fire Service’s Arson Crime Investigation Units.

Since January 1, the fire service has issued 492 administrative fines totaling €571,626.28 and carried out 138 arrests, of which 92 % relate to negligent fires and 8 % to intentional arson. The agency stresses continued high operational readiness and urges the public to observe fire‑prevention measures.