An investigation has been launched by the Karşıyaka Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding the forest fire that started on August 13 in Yamanlar Mountain and spread to the Çiğli and Bornova districts. In the course of the investigation, the Provincial Gendarmerie Command conducted an operation to examine the areas where the fire started and analyzed 150 hours of camera footage. As a result, 8 suspects were apprehended for engaging in illegal excavations for the purpose of historical artifact smuggling, which is believed to have caused the fire.
During the search of the suspects’ addresses, 40 objects believed to be historical artifacts, imitation banknotes, membership cards for a retired police association, police newspaper identification cards, police vehicle introduction cards, and passports suspected to be fake were seized. Following their interrogation at the prosecutor’s office, the suspects were referred to the court, where E.Y, S.K. and M.İ. were arrested on charges of causing a fire through negligence and engaging in illegal excavations, while D.Y. and A.S. were arrested for illegal excavations. Three other suspects were released under judicial control.
The forest fire that started on August 13 in Yamanlar Mountain and spread to three districts, covering an area of 2,159 hectares, was finally contained and extinguished on August 18 after a 5-day battle. The fire caused significant damage to numerous homes and businesses in the area, leaving a trail of destruction and devastation in its wake.
The arrest of the 8 suspects involved in illegal excavations for historical artifacts and their alleged connection to the forest fire has shed light on the potential dangers and criminal activities that can lead to devastating fires in forested areas. The authorities are working diligently to hold those responsible for this destructive act accountable and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The seizure of historical artifacts and fake documents during the search of the suspects’ residences highlights the broader issue of cultural heritage theft and illicit activities aimed at profiting from the illegal trade of priceless artifacts. The investigation into this case serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our natural environment and historical heritage from exploitation and destruction.
As the community continues to recover from the aftermath of the forest fire, efforts are being made to restore the affected areas and support those who have suffered losses as a result of the disaster. The swift action taken by law enforcement agencies and prosecutors in apprehending the suspects responsible for the fire underscores the commitment to upholding justice and safeguarding the well-being of the community.
