Summer in Dalmatia hasn’t even started yet, and we’re already facing a fiery apocalypse! Fires are blazing across dozens of locations from Makarska to Omiš, with houses, cars, and olive groves burning like it’s the end of the world. While firefighters and residents flee in panic, suspicions arise that these fires were deliberately set! Yes, you read that right — arsonists, those sick people who get pleasure from setting fires, are back in action. On June 20 alone, there were ten fires reported, and seven more the next day! A bundle of matches tied with a rubber band was found — a clear sign this is no accident.
But wait, the punishments for these criminals are a joke! Currently, arsonists face fines of just 19 euros and up to 60 days in jail for minor cases. For more serious offenses, the penalty ranges from six months to five years in prison, but court practice shows that jail sentences are rare and lenient. For example, a man from the island of Krk who set 23 fires received only one year in prison, with an anxiety-depressive disorder recognized as a mitigating circumstance.
Experts warn that most fires are not caused by true pyromaniacs, who are actually rare and account for only 1-2% of cases. Most fires result from revenge, interpersonal conflicts, negligence, or even attempts to gain financial benefits. Still, the human factor is the main cause, and the consequences are catastrophic — destroyed nature, endangered lives, and huge firefighting costs.
Croatia is preparing for an extremely challenging fire season. So far, 6,000 fires have been recorded, and the burned area has increased by 30% compared to last year. The firefighting system is on high alert with 34,000 volunteer and professional firefighters, 5,000 vehicles, 85 boats, and 25 drones. Still, citizens are urged to maintain their plots and not use drones during firefighting, as this endangers aerial operations.
Is it possible that the state can’t seriously deal with arsonists? Are the penalties really so light that they encourage new fires? While nature burns and people flee their homes, authorities promise tougher laws. But will that be enough? Or will we keep watching the fire spread while arsonists laugh from the sidelines?
If you have your own take or have seen something suspicious, feel free to share in the comments. Maybe your story will help put an end to this fire madness!
