Israeli Tourist Arrested for Starting Major Wildfire in Crete by Lighting Barbecue Despite Ban

A 35-year-old Israeli tourist was arrested on Saturday in Crete on suspicion of causing a large wildfire after lighting a barbecue in a rented vacation villa despite explicit bans. The tourist group had been verbally and in writing warned by the villa owner about the strict prohibition on barbecues due to extreme fire risk in the area. The fire broke out on Friday at 19:11 near the village of Sellia, close to the resort town of Plakias in the Agios Vasilios municipality of southern Rethymno.

Investigations by the Greek Fire Service's arson unit indicated the fire started in the villa's yard where the Israeli tourists were staying. Despite strong winds and severe warnings, they allegedly ignited the grill, causing sparks to ignite dry vegetation that rapidly spread. Over 60 firefighters, three special forest fire units, dozens of vehicles, helicopters, water tankers, and volunteers responded. The national emergency system issued evacuation orders for the nearby villages of Fotinari and Souda. Firefighters contained the blaze after about four hours.

This incident occurred amid a severe wildfire season in Greece. Just two weeks earlier, a massive fire near Rethymno burned approximately 45,000 dunams, forcing the evacuation of over 8,000 residents and tourists. That fire involved 224 firefighters, 53 fire trucks, 11 special units, and aerial firefighting assets, and tragically resulted in two firefighter deaths. Winds reached speeds up to 88 km/h, with local gusts exceeding 100 km/h, complicating firefighting efforts.

In response to the wildfire crisis, Greek authorities have adopted a zero-tolerance policy for violations of fire prevention rules. On days with high fire risk, lighting barbecues, burning brush, or any activity that could produce sparks is strictly forbidden. Violators face heavy fines and potential criminal charges.