Daniyar Abulgazin, one of Kazakhstan’s wealthiest individuals, has firmly denied any wrongdoing following allegations that a party on a superyacht he rented may have ignited a forest fire in Greece. He and seven other Kazakh nationals are facing charges from Greek authorities for complicity in arson. The incident occurred against the backdrop of Greece’s first heatwave of 2024, during which firefighters have been battling multiple blazes daily.
Initially, authorities suspected that fireworks launched from the yacht Persephoni directly caused the fire, but recent reports from Greek media suggest the fireworks may have been launched from a beach on the island after guests from the Persephoni disembarked. This case has sparked outrage in Greece, exacerbated by reports that the yacht’s passengers departed shortly after the fire erupted on June 21st.
In response to the allegations, Mr. Abulgazin released a statement asserting his innocence. He explained that he had rented the Persephoni for a week and had flown home the following day as planned. According to him, representatives of the Greek authorities did not initially make any claims against him or his guests in connection with the incident. He expressed surprise upon learning of the allegations later.
Mr. Abulgazin stated, “We strictly followed the fire safety rules established on the yacht. Neither I nor my guests asked the crew of the yacht or any other third parties to take any actions that could lead to a fire.” He also emphasized his willingness to fully cooperate with the Greek authorities in their investigation.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, it is noted that Kazakhstan does not have an extradition agreement with Greece, potentially affecting legal proceedings involving Mr. Abulgazin and his associates.
Currently, the captain and first mate of the Persephoni remain in custody, while fifteen other crew members, initially arrested, have been released on bail under certain restrictions.
Mr. Abulgazin is widely recognized as a major figure in Kazakhstan’s petroleum industry, boasting a personal fortune estimated at approximately $400 million (£315 million).
Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright
