It was revealed that treasure hunters caused the forest fire: 2,196 hectares of land had turned to ash

In the fire that broke out on Yamanlar Mountain in the Karşıyaka district of İzmir on August 13, 2,196 hectares of land were reduced to ash. Investigations revealed that the fire was started by treasure hunters searching for historical artifacts.

The forest fire on Yamanlar Mountain began around 21:30 on Tuesday, August 13. The fire was largely extinguished by the dedicated efforts of the teams on August 15, but the flames reignited around 21:00 on the same day due to the wind, and the fire spread over a wide area. In the fire, 17 houses burned down and 105 houses were evacuated. In the fire, which also led to the evacuation of 44 workplaces and started in Karşıyaka before spreading to the Bayraklı and Çiğli districts, many parts of the city were covered in smoke. A total of 2,196 hectares of land were damaged in the fire, which was brought under control in 5 days.

In the investigation launched into the fire, teams examining 150 hours of camera footage detained 8 people suspected of engaging in historical artifact smuggling. Searches conducted in the suspects' homes yielded 40 objects and imitation banknotes, as well as a police retirees' association membership card, a police newspaper ID card, a police vehicle identification card, and passports considered to be fake.

Three of the suspects referred to the courthouse were arrested on charges of 'causing a fire by negligence' and 'illegal excavation,' and two were arrested for 'illegal excavation.' Three suspects were released under judicial control conditions.

News Source: 12punto