59-year-old man arrested for serial arson in Sindos, Thessaloniki

A 59-year-old man has been arrested in Sindos, Thessaloniki, following an investigation by the Arson Crimes Investigation Unit into six consecutive fires. Authorities report that the suspect intentionally set fires in dry grass, reeds, and agricultural areas over the course of four days. Specifically, he ignited one blaze on Saturday, August 8, 2026, which destroyed 20 acres, and another on Sunday, August 9, destroying 15 acres. On Tuesday, August 11, he allegedly ignited four additional fires in the same vicinity before being apprehended.

The suspect has been charged with intentional, serial arson that posed a danger to property and human lives. Evidence includes video documentation captured during one of the incidents. During his appearance before the prosecutor, the man confessed, claiming he set the fires to relieve stress and exhaustion from work. He stated he used paper napkins to ignite the blazes, which he initiated after drinking wine, noting there was no underlying motive of revenge. The defendant has been referred to an examining magistrate and is scheduled to provide his formal testimony this coming Friday.