Greek Mayor Charged with Arson in Athens Wildfire Case

Aug 7, 2026

62 min

Aug 7, 2026 13:31

Greek mayor among three charged over wildfire near Athens

## Charges and Investigation

A Greek mayor, Giannis Apostolou, along with two others, has been charged with arson related to a wildfire near Athens. Apostolou, who owns an electrical installation company, is accused of causing the fire that began on July 31 from a spark at a wind farm near Agios Vasileios. The fire spread rapidly due to strong winds, damaging extensive areas.

## Legal Consequences

The charges against Apostolou, a contractor, and the wind farm owner include arson and damaging public utilities. If convicted, they could face over a decade in prison. The wind farm's operations have been suspended as part of the investigation.

## Impact of the Wildfire

The wildfire, fueled by winds up to 130 km/h, reached areas 40 kilometers from Athens, destroying forests, scrubland, and olive groves. Over 120 buildings in Porto Germeno were damaged. This incident is part of a series of fires in Greece, which have resulted in five fatalities, including three firefighters.

## Broader Context

The fires highlight the increasing risk of wildfires due to climate change, with scientists warning of more frequent and intense heatwaves and droughts. The wind farm, installed over a decade ago, faced local opposition, but legal efforts to prevent its establishment were unsuccessful.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents

LinkedIn X Facebook WhatsApp Telegram