100 hectares of land destroyed: The person responsible turns out to be an AKP member

The fire that started 3 days ago in a forested area in Istanbul's Silivri district spread rapidly due to the wind, turning a large area into ash.

100 hectares of forest land were damaged in the fire. As the flames approached residential areas, 50 houses were evacuated as a precaution.

GOVERNOR GÜL: "A SPARK FROM A BARBECUE CAUSED IT"

Making a statement regarding the fire, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül announced that the cause of the fire had been determined during initial investigations. Gül announced that a spark from a barbecue being used by an individual had jumped from the brush to the forest, causing the fire, and that the person in question had been taken into custody. However, he did not provide a name.

THE PERSON WHO CAUSED THE FIRE IS A FORMER AKP DISTRICT CHAIRMAN

While no name was shared in the Governor's Office statement, it was learned that the person taken into custody was former AKP Silivri District Chairman and current AKP İstanbul Provincial Delegate Vural Sönmez. The fire, for which Sönmez is held responsible based on witness statements and evidence, has caused a great stir in public opinion.

ARRESTED AND SENT TO METRIS PRISON

Vural Sönmez, who was referred to the courthouse as part of the investigation, was arrested on charges of "causing a forest fire through negligence." Sönmez was arrested by the duty magistrate and sent to Metris Prison.