Thirteen individuals have been taken into custody following a forest fire allegedly ignited by fireworks launched from a yacht near Hydra Island, just off the coast of Athens. The incident occurred late on Friday, prompting swift action by Greek authorities as the country grapples with a summer plagued by deadly wildfires.
The mayor of Hydra expressed outrage at the incident and vowed to hold those responsible accountable. In a statement on Facebook, Hydra’s fire crews confirmed that the blaze had consumed the island’s sole pine forest, leaving devastation in its wake.
This incident follows the successful containment of a large wildfire near Athens on Wednesday. Greek firefighters, supported by water-bombing aircraft, managed to control the flames, but authorities remained vigilant to prevent any resurgence.
Officials suspect that Wednesday’s wildfire was deliberately set, exacerbated by windy, hot, and dry weather conditions. As Greece continues its battle against forest fires, the focus remains on preventing further destruction and safeguarding communities.
