Two people detained over forest fires in southern Turkey

Photos: AA

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Two suspects have been detained over their links to a spate of forest fires in Hatay, southern Turkey, Minister of Interior Süleyman Soylu announced yesterday (October 11).

An investigation into the cause of the fires continued, Soylu told reporters in Belen District, the location of one of the fires.

A fire broke out in Belen on Friday and authorities believe it was a case of arson, İbrahim Gül, the district mayor, told the state-run Anadolu Agency (AA).

Soylu noted rumors suggesting the fire was set by the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).

"We are continuing our investigation into this matter," he said, adding that the PKK "has clear instructions on burning forests."

On Saturday, it was announced at least 10 people suffered minor injuries due to the fires in the province. Twenty homes and five vehicles were also damaged.

Bekir Pakdemirli, the Minister Agriculture and Forestry, said the fires in Hatay, which spread to three districts, have been brought under control.

There have been no casualties from the blazes. (TP/VK)