In Albania, eighteen individuals have been apprehended on charges of igniting fires across different regions of the nation, as reported by police spokesperson Gentian Moulay to Agence France-Presse today.

“Law enforcement is conducting on-site investigations to pinpoint all individuals responsible for these criminal fires, regardless of whether they were intentionally lit or resulted from negligence,” he stated.

Since mid-June, over 12,000 hectares, comprising forests and olive orchards, have been destroyed by fires, according to several environmental advocacy groups.

Numerous blazes have erupted in recent days, some located close to the popular tourist coastline.

“Arson represents not just a criminal act but also a risk to life, the environment, and future generations,” affirmed the Albanian Ministry of Interior today.

The ministry emphasized that any act of willfully starting a fire can lead to a five-year prison sentence, and if the fire results in significant destruction or serious harm to individuals’ lives and health, the penal code stipulates a prison sentence of 10 to 15 years.

Albanian military helicopters, along with support from Greek, Italian, and Hungarian helicopters, have been engaged in firefighting efforts. During these operations, one police officer suffered serious injuries on Friday, and five others were hospitalized due to severe smoke inhalation.

This morning, officials reported that only a few active fires remain, and a forecasted temperature reduction to approximately 30 degrees from last Sunday’s 10 degrees might provide some relief.

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