Israeli man arrested in Crete over forest fire charges

Greek fire investigation authorities in Crete have arrested a 35-year-old Israeli citizen on charges of causing a forest fire.

According to the Greek newspaper Kathimerini on Sunday, the arrest took place after the suspect was found grilling meat despite official warnings about the high risk of wildfires. The fire broke out in the municipality of Agios Vasileios in the Rethymno region, but firefighters managed to contain and extinguish it within about four hours.

The newspaper reported that the suspect is expected to appear before an investigating judge and a public prosecutor, who will decide whether to formally charge him and whether he will be held in custody or released on conditions.

Official data shows that 297 people have been detained since January 1 until Saturday on charges related to starting fires, including 267 for negligence and 30 for deliberate arson.