Türkiye probes 29 suspects over forest fires since June
Turkish authorities identified 29 suspects and arrested six in investigations into 44 forest fires across 16 of the country’s 81 provinces since June 1, 2026, Justice Minister Akın Gürlek has stated.
Nine suspects were placed under judicial control and six remain in detention while the ministry’s Natural Disasters and Accidents Department monitors legal proceedings, Gürlek said.
Chief public prosecutor’s offices evaluate crime scene findings, camera footage, communication data, witness statements, expert reports and technical examinations to determine causes and the chain of responsibility.
Those who intentionally burn forests or cause fires through recklessness or carelessness will face the severest legal sanctions, Gürlek said.
