Authorities in Patras have arrested a 25-year-old man on suspicion of attempted arson in the district of Girokomeio.

According to police, the suspect was spotted in a rural field bending down and trying to ignite a fresh fire. Witnesses photographed and filmed the incident before alerting law enforcement.

The man allegedly attempted to flee the scene on his motorcycle after setting the blaze, but was intercepted and taken into custody shortly before 6 p.m.

The suspected arson attempt occurred while other active wildfire fronts were already threatening the wider Patras area.

An investigation is underway by the Patras Division for the Prosecution and Detection of Crimes to determine the circumstances and possible motives behind the act.