A Greek mayor, Giannis Apostolou, along with the owner of a wind farm and a contractor for his electrical company, has been charged with arson and damaging public utilities for a wildfire near Athens. All three could face over 10 years in prison if convicted. The blaze, which began on July 31, was believed to have started from power cables at a wind farm near Agios Vasileios, northwest of Athens.
What caused the fire?
Investigators believe the fire started from a spark on power cables at the wind farm near Agios Vasileios. The wind farm's owner is accused of failing to clear vegetation around the power lines, which had already experienced a fire on June 27.
Who has been charged?
Giannis Apostolou, mayor of Stylida, owns an electrical company linked to the wind farm. He, the wind farm's owner, and a contractor for the electrical company have been charged with arson and damaging public utilities.
What are the potential consequences?
If convicted, the three charged could face more than 10 years in prison. Authorities have also suspended operations at the wind farm, which is on the border of Boeotia and Attica.
What damage was caused by the fire?
The wildfire devastated large areas of forest, scrubland, and olive groves, and damaged over 120 buildings and homes in the seaside resort of Porto Germeno. Since the end of July, Greece has experienced numerous wildfires, resulting in five deaths, including three firefighters.
