188 fires have engulfed Albania since the end of July, also claiming the lives of two citizens from Gjirokastra.
The majority of the fires were intentional, say authorities, while the flames were favored by high temperatures and strong winds creating a new chain of outbreaks.
According to data from the Institute of Geosciences, Energy, Water, and Environment (IGJEUM), the risk remains high in the next 24 hours.
Only in three counties, namely Shkodra, Kuksi, and Dibra, the risk is considered moderate.
Authorities suggest that the locals have set the fires.
The main purpose for their placement, mainly in bushy areas, is to create new pastures for livestock. But the situation precipitated out of control.
This was the case of two shepherds from Dropull who caused a massive fire that also burned through several landmines from WWII causing alarm among the locals after hearing loud explosions.
17 people have been prosecuted and are now facing justice. According to the annual report of the Prosecution Office, in 2020 there were 24 criminal proceedings over the destruction of forests by fire and negligence.
None of the cases made it to court and no one has been sentenced. In 2019, there were 27 proceedings from which one was put behind bars.
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