Arrest of French citizen for fire in Perahora, Corinthia
Police arrested a 71-year-old French citizen who is accused of causing a fire in a wooded area near Lake Vouliagmeni during agricultural work.
Arrest of French citizen for fire in Perahora, Corinthia
Police authorities have arrested a 71-year-old man, a French national, who is alleged to have caused a fire in a wooded area in Perahora, Corinthia, near Lake Vouliagmeni and at a distance from residential areas. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Monday, 8 June.
According to ERT News, the arrested man was carrying out work on his field without observing the required fire protection measures, as required by legislation for the fire prevention season. He claimed that whilst he was cutting dry grass with machinery, the blade struck a rock, creating a spark that ignited the fire.
The fire destroyed 120 hectares of agricultural-woodland land. Extinguishing efforts involved 106 firefighters with five hiking units, thirty vehicles, volunteers, whilst three aircraft and five helicopters assisted from the air. The rapid mobilisation of forces helped to bring the fire under control before it reached populated areas.
The emergency system 112 was activated immediately, sending a message to residents to remain on alert. In the end, no evacuation was necessary, and there was no damage to homes. As a precaution, firefighting forces continue to patrol the area.
A team from the Directorate for Combating Arson Crimes attended the scene and arrested the suspect, imposing an administrative fine of €5,800 on him.
Source: ERT