Statement from Minister of Justice Akın Gürlek on forest fire investigations

Minister of Justice Akın Gürlek stated that the judicial processes regarding forest fires are being followed with determination, and announced that 43 suspects were identified in the investigations carried out into 64 forest fires that occurred in 22 provinces since June 1, 2026, and 11 of them were arrested. Minister Gürlek said, "No forest fire with suspected criminal activity will be allowed to remain unsolved."

“THOSE WHO MEAN OUR GREEN HOMELAND WILL BE ACCOUNTABLE BEFORE JUSTICE”

Statements of Minister of Justice Akın Gürlek:

We are determinedly following the judicial processes regarding the forest fires that threaten our Green Homeland, which is our breath, our future and one of the most valuable legacies we will leave to future generations.

Under the close monitoring of our Department of Natural Disasters and Accidents, our Chief Public Prosecutor's Office is thoroughly investigating the causes of fires and those responsible.

In the investigations into 10 forest fires that occurred in Adıyaman, Antalya, Aydın, Balıkesir, Bilecik, Kırklareli, Kocaeli and Sinop in the last week, action was taken against 6 suspects; 2 suspects were arrested, a judicial control order was issued for 1 suspect, and the detention process of 3 suspects continues. Since June 1, 2026, a total of 43 suspects have been identified regarding 64 forest fires for which legal action has been taken in 22 provinces.

11 of the suspects were arrested, and judicial control measures were imposed on 18 suspects. The detention process of 3 suspects continues. May our nation be relieved; Those who deliberately burn our forests and those who cause fires through negligence or imprudence are held accountable before justice. No forest fire suspected of crime will be allowed to remain unsolved.