Israeli Tourist Arrested in Crete Over Wildfire Allegedly Sparked by Barbecue

A 35-year-old Israeli tourist has been arrested in Crete on suspicion of causing a wildfire.

After allegedly using a barbecue at a rented villa despite warnings against outdoor grilling amid high fire risk, according to Greek media reports. The man was arrested on Saturday and was due to appear before a judge in Rethymno on Sunday, with prosecutors expected to seek an extension of his detention.

The fire broke out around 7:10 p.m. on Friday near Sellia, close to the resort town of Plakias in southern Rethymno. Investigators from the Greek Fire Service’s arson unit reportedly determined that the blaze started in the yard of a villa occupied by a group of Israeli tourists.

The villa owner had allegedly warned the guests when they arrived that barbecues were prohibited because of the elevated wildfire risk. The warning was reportedly also provided in writing.

Despite the restriction, the tourists allegedly used the grill. Strong winds are believed to have carried sparks into nearby dry vegetation, quickly spreading the flames.

More than 60 firefighters were mobilised to battle the blaze, along with specialist wildfire units, dozens of fire engines, helicopters, water tankers and volunteers.

Greece’s 112 emergency service issued alerts to residents and ordered the precautionary evacuation of the communities of Fotinari and Souda. Firefighters reportedly brought the fire under control after around four hours.

Greece Tightens Fire Safety Measures

The incident comes amid an intense wildfire season in Greece, where authorities have imposed strict restrictions on activities that could trigger fires.

Around two weeks earlier, a major wildfire in the Rethymno region burned nearly 4,500 hectares over two days, according to data from the National Observatory of Athens. More than 8,000 residents and tourists were evacuated, while hundreds of firefighters and specialist units, supported by aircraft and helicopters, took part in the operation.

Two firefighters were killed while battling that blaze. Strong winds, reaching up to 88 kph with gusts exceeding 100 kph, further complicated firefighting efforts.

Greek authorities have since adopted a zero-tolerance approach to violations of fire prevention rules. When high fire danger is declared, activities such as barbecuing, burning vegetation and other actions capable of producing sparks are prohibited.

Those found violating the restrictions can face substantial fines as well as criminal proceedings.