The arson incident

At 00:33 on Friday, 17 July 2026, a 50-year-old man of Albanian origin approached a pile of dry grass, branches, and rubbish on Demokratias Street, on the border between Anoixi and Ekali in northern Attica. The area is heavily wooded with scattered homes. Security camera footage shows him stopping, igniting the material, and then walking away calmly as flames erupted. He paused briefly to watch the fire before leaving the scene.

Video evidence

The Directorate for Combating Arson Crimes (DAEE) obtained the video from nearby security cameras. The footage, broadcast by Greek media outlets including MEGA and ANT1, shows the suspect arriving at 00:33, tossing an object onto the dry vegetation, and the fire starting almost immediately. His unhurried departure and lack of panic are striking. The video was key to identifying him.

Fire response and containment

The fire broke out in a high-risk period for Attica. Firefighters responded quickly and contained the blaze before it could spread into the pine forest between Anoixi and Ekali, which would have threatened nearby houses. The prompt intervention prevented what could have been a serious wildfire.

Arrest and investigation

DAEE investigators used the footage to identify the suspect. A search of his home uncovered clothing matching what he wore during the incident. He was arrested under the flagrante delicto procedure and is expected to appear before a prosecutor. Authorities are examining whether he acted alone and if he is linked to other similar fires in the area. The object he threw is also under investigation.