A Greek mayor is facing accusations of arson in connection with a wildfire that broke out near Athens, sparking outrage and renewed scrutiny over how the country handles seasonal fires.
Authorities allege that the blaze, which spread quickly through dry vegetation on the outskirts of the capital, was started deliberately. The mayor has been named as a suspect and is under investigation, though he has publicly denied any involvement and said he is cooperating with officials.
The fire forced evacuations in nearby communities and burned through large areas of forest and scrubland before crews were able to bring it under control. Emergency services deployed aircraft, ground teams, and volunteers to contain the flames amid hot, windy conditions that made the work especially difficult.
Wildfires are a recurring threat in Greece during the summer months, and public frustration runs high when there are suggestions of human involvement. Government officials have said they will pursue the case fully, emphasizing that anyone found responsible for starting fires will face serious legal consequences.
The investigation is ongoing as forensic teams examine the burn site for evidence. For residents near Athens, the incident has added to anxiety about safety and preparedness during peak fire season, while also raising questions about accountability at the local level.
