Greek authorities arrested thirteen Greek nationals on Saturday, alleging their involvement in sparking a wildfire on the island of Hydra. The suspects, passengers aboard the luxury yacht "Persefoni I," are believed to have ignited the blaze Friday night through the use of fireworks.
Following the incident, the yacht departed Hydra and docked at Agios Kosmas marina in southern Athens. Authorities apprehended the suspects shortly after their 4:35 p.m. arrival.
The fire, now contained, ignited in Bisti, a remote and inaccessible area on the southeastern tip of the island. The suspects are scheduled to appear before a Piraeus prosecutor Sunday morning.
The island's seasonal firefighting team placed blame squarely on the yacht passengers, stating the blaze was "caused by a fireworks launched from a boat." Hydra's mayor, Giorgos Koukoudakis, expressed outrage over the "irresponsible" actions, a sentiment echoed by many on social media.
This incident comes as Greece faces a heightened risk of wildfires due to strong winds and soaring temperatures. The country recently strengthened arson penalties, with offenders facing up to 20 years in prison and hefty fines. Last year, devastating wildfires following a brutal heatwave claimed the lives of 20 people, highlighting the severe consequences of such blazes.
