Arrest Made in Suspected Arson Cases: 45-Year-Old Individual Detained in Avlona Area

Authorities have arrested a 45-year-old man on Thursday afternoon in connection with suspected arson in the Avlona area, located at the base of Mount Parnitha.

The individual, identified as a former lawyer and resident of Avlona, is reportedly facing psychological challenges.

Evidence and witness statements have surfaced, linking him to the series of fires that occurred earlier today in the Avlona region. Police sources have presented the collected evidence that led to the detention of the 45-year-old Greek individual.

Minister of Civil Protection, Vassilis Kikilias, previously described the suspected arsonists as "lowlife arsonists" while disclosing details about the arson attempts.

Release of Three Detainees

A 44-year-old man, initially apprehended under suspicion of arson in Avlona, was released after no substantial evidence was found to implicate him.

Likewise, two 31-year-old men, spotted in the Menidi suburb of western Athens while heading towards Parnitha, were also released. These individuals were taken into custody during a routine police check and were found in possession of multiple lighters and some suspicious containers.

Arrests in Chalkida

Local authorities have apprehended a 48-year-old man believed to be responsible for starting three fires in Doko, near Chalkida in Evia. Surveillance cameras reportedly captured the man in proximity to the locations where the fires originated on Wednesday.

Additional reports suggest that law enforcement is actively searching for another individual suspected of arson in Halkida.

Statistics provided by the Fire Service spokesperson, Giannis Artopoulos, indicate that as of August 23, 2023, a total of 140 individuals have been arrested for arson in agricultural and forested areas. Among them, 117 individuals were responsible for fires caused by negligence, while 23 intentionally set fires.