A Kazakh oligarch who was among a group of foreigners aboard a yacht during a forest fire on the Greek island of Hydra has denied any involvement in the incident.
The fire, sparked by fireworks launched from the yacht, scorched approximately 74 acres of pine forest. Criminal charges for instigating arson were filed against eight adults in the group, including the oligarch, but they were allowed to return to Kazakhstan without providing statements to authorities.
Daniyar Abulgazin, one of Kazakhstan's wealthiest individuals, issued a statement expressing his deep sadness over the fire and categorically denying any wrongdoing. He said that neither he or his guests engaged in any actions that could have led to the blaze, and that they adhered strictly to the yacht's fire safety regulations.
Mr. Abulgazin also mentioned that he and his guests had spoken with Greek authorities before departing Greece on June 22, and that no allegations were made against them at that time.
The investigation into the fire is ongoing, and Mr. Abulgazin has pledged full cooperation with Greek authorities.