Greek authorities have arrested 13 yacht crew members for suspected arsonists. Despite constant warnings of extreme fire danger, they reportedly set off fireworks off the coast of the popular holiday island of Hydra on Saturday evening to entertain passengers. The sparks set the island’s only pine forest on fire.
Those responsible tried to extinguish the first flames, but then called the fire brigade and ran away. Passing boats observed the incident and reported it to authorities, Greek media reported, citing the coast guard.
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Those arrested must be brought to justice, according to the fire brigade, which also published a photo of the fire on the island on Facebook.
The island’s mayor was furious about the incident in a television interview. Regardless of central authorities, the island community itself will also report those affected, he said. Meanwhile, the fire brigade was able to get the fire under control with helicopters late on Saturday evening.
Arsonists risk jail time in Greece
Penalties for intentional or negligent arson were sharply increased in Greece last year. In addition to fines that can run into five figures, prison sentences of up to ten years can now be imposed, even for arson caused by negligence.
The risk of forest fires will remain high in several regions of central Greece throughout the weekend, Greece’s civil protection agency said. But as a fire brigade spokesperson announced on Sunday morning, most fires were under control.
Source: Krone
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