Greek Arson Crime Response Units operating under the Fire Service Directorate for Arson Crimes have arrested a 63-year-old woman in connection with an ongoing wildfire on the island of Skyros.
Investigation data showed that the fire broke out around 2:32 p.m. and was caused by an electric power generator. The woman was using the generator to supply electricity to a storage space that functioned as a kitchen.
Fire Service officials stated that officers from the Chalkida Arson Crime Response Unit traveled to the island to form the legal case file against the suspect. The Fire Service emphasized that the blaze has expanded significantly and remains active.
Second arrest made in Laconia
In a separate incident, investigative officers from the Laconia Arson Crime Response Unit arrested a 71-year-old man under in-flagrante-delicto summary procedures following a fire in the Agia Eirini area of Laconia.
According to investigation details, the fire was caused by the use of a barbecue on a plot of land and burned approximately 100 square meters of dry grass. Authorities imposed an administrative fine of 3,600 euros on the arrested man.
The Fire Service confirmed that preliminary investigations into both incidents remain ongoing to fully clarify the conditions under which the fires started and spread.
Rise in fire safety enforcement
Official records show that between January 1 and August 6, 2026, authorities imposed 675 administrative fines totaling 1,035,253.24 euros for fire safety violations across the country.
During the same period, officers made 271 arrests under in-flagrante-delicto procedures. Fire officials reported that 242 of these arrests, representing 89.30 percent, were due to negligence, while 29 arrests, or 10.70 percent, involved intentional arson.
The Fire Service Directorate for Arson Crimes and fire investigation services stressed that they remain on heightened operational readiness, conducting intensive inspections and acting immediately to assign responsibility for violations.
Fire Body representatives reminded the public that the overwhelming majority of wildfires stem from human negligence. Officials underlined that adhering to fire safety rules and avoiding activities that produce sparks or ignition are essential to protect human life, the environment, and property.
