Turkish authorities have arrested six people suspected of involvement in a series of devastating forest fires, as prosecutors continue investigating dozens of wildfires across the country.

Justice Minister Akın Gürlek said investigations are underway into 44 forest fires that have occurred in 16 provinces since June 1, TRT Haber reports.

Police officers have identified 29 suspects in connection with the blazes. Of those, six have been arrested, while nine others have been released under judicial supervision pending further legal proceedings.

Gürlek pledged that everyone found responsible for starting forest fires-whether intentionally or through negligence-would be held fully accountable under the law.