Three people were arrested on Wednesday, July 1, in connection with fires caused by negligence in areas of Preveza and Halkidiki, following investigations by the Fire Department’s Arson Crimes Investigation Units and local inquiry officers.

In the first case, a 58-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman were arrested after allegedly burning pallets and animal waste on a plot of land in Valanidousa, in the Municipality of Preveza. The fire spread to nearby land, burning around 25 stremmata — approximately 2.5 hectares — of dry grass and holm oak vegetation. The two were arrested at the scene and were fined €3,557.81.

In the second case, a man was arrested in the act after allegedly causing a fire while using an electric metal-cutting wheel in an olive grove and forested area with shrubland in Galatista, Halkidiki.

According to the Fire Department, from January 1 to July 1, 2026, a total of 503 administrative fines have been issued for fire-related offences, amounting to €594,632.62. Over the same period, 145 people have been arrested under the procedure for offences caught in the act. Of these cases, 134 — or 92.41% — involved fires caused by negligence, while 11 — or 7.59% — concerned deliberate arson.

The Directorate for Combating Arson Crimes and the Fire Department’s investigative units remain on heightened operational alert, carrying out inspections and taking immediate action where violations are identified.

The Fire Department again reminded the public that the vast majority of fires continue to be caused by human negligence. It urged citizens to strictly follow fire safety rules and avoid any activity that could produce sparks or ignition, stressing that prevention is essential for protecting human life, the natural environment and property.