Man, 66, arrested in Thermi, Thessaloniki over fire caused by brush cutter use
The Fire Service arrested a 66-year-old in the Triadi area of Thermi, who allegedly caused a fire covering 800 square metres whilst carrying out agricultural work.
Fire from agricultural machinery in Thermi — one arrested
The Fire Service proceeded with the arrest of a 66-year-old in the Triadi area of the Municipality of Thermi, Thessaloniki, who allegedly caused a fire through negligence whilst carrying out agricultural work. The incident is reported by Newsit.gr.
According to the evidence from the preliminary investigation, the man was carrying out cleaning work on a plot of land when the use of agricultural machinery of the brush cutter type produced sparks, resulting in a fire breaking out. The fire spread across an area with dried grass, burning approximately 800 square metres, while firefighting forces were mobilised immediately to tackle it.
The 66-year-old was arrested within the framework of the flagrante delicto procedure and the competent prosecuting authority was informed.
Fire statistics 2026
The Fire Service notes that the overwhelming majority of fires are due to human negligence. From 1 January to 7 July 2026, a total of 536 administrative fines have been imposed totalling €684,481.40, whilst 170 arrests have been made within the framework of the flagrante delicto procedure.
Of these, 157 cases — a percentage of 92.35% — concern fires caused by negligence, whilst the remaining 13 (7.65%) were caused by intent.
The Directorate for Combating Arson Crimes and the Investigative Units for Combating Arson Crimes remain on heightened operational alert, carrying out inspections and assigning responsibility where breaches are found. The Fire Service reminds of the need for strict compliance with fire safety measures and avoidance of work that may cause sparks or ignition.
Source: Newsit.gr