A 35-year-old Israeli tourist has been arrested in Crete for allegedly causing a wildfire after using a barbecue at a rented villa despite warnings that outdoor grilling was prohibited due to extreme fire danger, Greek media reported.
The man was arrested on Saturday and was expected to appear before a judge in Rethymno on Sunday. Prosecutors are seeking an extension of his detention as the investigation continues. The fire started around 7:10 p.m. Friday near Sellia, close to the resort town of Plakias in southern Rethymno. Greece’s Fire Service reportedly traced the blaze to the yard of a villa where a group of Israeli tourists was staying.
According to investigators, the villa owner had warned the guests upon their arrival that barbecues were banned because of the high wildfire risk. The warning was reportedly given both verbally and in writing. The tourists allegedly proceeded with the barbecue, after which strong winds may have carried sparks into nearby dry vegetation, causing the fire to spread.
More than 60 firefighters, specialist wildfire teams, fire engines, helicopters, water tankers and volunteers were deployed to contain the blaze. Authorities issued emergency alerts through Greece’s 112 system and ordered precautionary evacuations in Fotinari and Souda.
The fire was brought under control after around four hours, according to local reports.
The arrest comes as Greece faces a particularly dangerous wildfire season. Earlier this month, a major fire in the Rethymno region burned nearly 4,500 hectares and forced more than 8,000 residents and tourists to evacuate. Two firefighters were killed while battling that blaze.
Greek authorities have adopted strict enforcement of fire-prevention rules, particularly on days of elevated fire risk. Barbecues, burning vegetation and other activities that could generate sparks are prohibited during such periods, with violations potentially leading to heavy fines and criminal charges.
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