Turkish authorities have arrested ten suspects in connection with a series of wildfires that have raged across the country over the past week, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced on Friday.
The wildfires, which began on 26 June, have so far claimed two lives in the western coastal province of Izmir, as emergency teams – supported by planes and helicopters – battled to contain the flames.
High temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity were blamed for the rapid spread of the fires, which broke out in at least 65 locations nationwide. Officials say the causes of some fires were linked to welding and agricultural machinery use near forested areas, as well as burning garden waste.
Legal proceedings are ongoing for 15 additional suspects, Yerlikaya added.
Speaking separately, Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli stated that nine out of ten wildfires being fought on Friday were largely under control. However, he noted that efforts to contain the fire in Hatay province, in the southeast, would continue overnight.
Turkey is among several Mediterranean countries experiencing an early and intense wildfire season, raising concerns about climate-related vulnerabilities and fire prevention practices.
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