Major wildfires that erupted along the Sakarya-Bilecik border and in Manisa’s Akhisar district have been largely brought under control, Türkiye’s Agriculture and Forestry Minister İbrahim Yumaklı announced on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters during a visit to the affected zone in Sakarya’s Taraklı district, Yumaklı confirmed that ground and aerial firefighting teams continue cooling operations to prevent flare-ups. “The fire on the Bilecik-Sakarya border has been brought under significant control,” he stated, attributing much of the progress to overnight rainfall and the relentless efforts of firefighting crews.

Teams worked through the night under difficult conditions, building approximately 58 kilometers of forest roads in just six hours to reach the fire zones, which were complicated by rugged terrain filled with valleys and cliffs.

Türkiye has witnessed a sharp increase in wildfire activity in recent days, driven by high temperatures and strong winds. Yumaklı reported that authorities responded to 150 fire incidents across the country in the past two days alone. Meteorological forecasts indicate continued storm-level winds in the Marmara, Aegean, and parts of the Mediterranean regions, keeping the fire risk at elevated levels.

The minister also confirmed that investigations into the causes of the fires are ongoing. “Law enforcement has already detained suspects. We will ensure those responsible face the toughest penalties,” Yumaklı affirmed, signaling a firm stance against arson.

Authorities continue to monitor the affected regions closely as cooling efforts persist to ensure the fires do not reignite. (ILKHA)