Greek authorities arrest 13 after fireworks cause island forest fire

Athens [Greece], June 24: The Greek authorities detained 13 members of a yacht crew on suspicion of arson, after a fire broke out and amid the heightened danger of wildfires during the summer. The crew allegedly set off the fireworks off the coast of the popular holiday island of Hydra to entertain the guests, but sparks set fire to the island's only pine forest.
The suspects first tried to extinguish the flames then called the fire brigade and left the area. People on other boats saw the incident and reported it to the authorities, Greek media reported, citing the coastguard. Those detained will be brought to justice, the fire brigade said. The island's mayor expressed fury in a television interview, saying no matter what the central authorities do, the island community would also press charges against those involved. The fire brigade brought the fire under control late on Saturday evening, aided by helicopters. (dpa)
Source: Qatar Tribune