11 suspects arrested in connection with 64 forest fires

Turkish authorities have apprehended 11 individuals suspected of starting forest fires across the country. Justice Minister Yılmaz Tunç announced that since June 1, 2026, 64 forest fires have been investigated in 22 provinces, leading to the identification of 43 suspects.

Of the suspects, 11 have been arrested, while 18 are under judicial control, and the detention of 3 others is ongoing. The minister emphasized the government's commitment to pursuing legal action against those responsible for the fires, stating, "Those who threaten our Green Homeland, one of our most precious legacies to be left to our future and future generations, are being held accountable before justice."

The investigations are being closely monitored by the Directorate of Natural Disasters and Accidents, with public prosecutor's offices examining the causes and perpetrators. In the past week alone, 10 forest fires in provinces including Adıyaman, Antalya, and Kocaeli resulted in actions against 6 suspects, with 2 arrests and 1 under judicial control. The minister assured the public that no forest fire with suspected criminal involvement will go unsolved.