Greek Fire Service Arrests Three for Negligence Fires in Preveza and Halkidiki

Greek fire services have arrested three individuals for negligence-related fires in the regions of Preveza and Halkidiki. The arrests were made by the Fire Service's Arson Crime Investigation Directorate (AKAE) in cooperation with local investigative units.

In the first incident, a 58-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman were arrested for burning pallets and animal waste on agricultural land in Valanidousa, Preveza. The fire spread, burning approximately 25 acres of dry grass and shrubs. The pair were detained and fined 3,557.81 euros.

In the second case, a man was arrested in Galatista, Halkidiki, for starting a fire while using an electric grinder on metal. The fire spread through an olive grove and a wooded area with brush.

From January 1 to July 1, 2026, authorities have issued 503 administrative fines totaling 594,632.62 euros and made 145 arrests. Of these arrests, 134 were for negligence fires and 11 for intentional fires.

The Fire Service stressed that its investigative units are on high alert, conducting thorough checks and assigning responsibility for violations. They reminded the public that most fires are caused by human negligence and urged adherence to fire safety measures to protect lives, the environment, and property.

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The faithful observance of fire safety measures and the avoidance of work that may cause sparks or ignition are a basic prerequisite for the protection of human life, the natural environment, and citizens' property.