“This particular case raises many questions,” noted the Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, Vassilis Kikilias, referring to the arrest of a Turkish citizen for arson in Aspropyrgos.
As he added in this regard: “There are questions that remain about this and about last year’s incidents in Alexandroupoli and Evros,” said Mr Kikilias, speaking yesterday, Monday evening, on the Star television station.
He also noted that the anti-terrorism department has been charged in the case and a regular trial has been scheduled. Among other things, he emphasized: “Evros, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace are of strategic importance for us in Northern Greece, it has huge energy, national, NATO interests, and I feel that it is now escaping the competence of the Corps.
For the attack on volunteers in Parnitha
Asked about the attack on the volunteers in Parnitha, he characteristically said: “I was informed by the South Greek Inspector of the Hellenic Police that the case has been dropped. EL.AS she once again did her job and I want to thank all the men and women in the Chamber.”
Referring to the revision of the Penal Code with regard to the conversion of negligent arson from a misdemeanor into a crime, he stated that “negligent perpetrators are now incarcerated, much less those who intend to set fires”.
Speaking about the changes introduced to the Fire Service this year in relation to the management and response to forest fires he said: “I am pleased with the way the Fire Service is responding, we have a new doctrine to deal with forest fires, together with foresters and the forestry authorities, the self-government, the volunteers, the Army, the Police, of course, the Coast Guard and all the forces involved.” He also added: “We must all reflect on the collective responsibility that the State has, of course, but also ours individual responsibility in relation to our space, our neighborhood, our house, our yard, our land”.
Finally, when asked to comment on the progress of the implementation of the “Aegis” Civil Protection equipment program, he highlighted that it is “a great gift for future generations”. It will begin to be received from 2025, starting with the next fire season. It includes everything that the new technology has, in addition to new aircraft, Canadair, helicopters, drones, amphibians, tractors, artificial intelligence, etc.”