Turkish authorities have released footage showing a man attempting to set fire to the interior of Hagia Sophia, the 1,500-year-old Byzantine landmark in Turkey.
Security guards at the historic site quickly intervened and stopped the arson attempt, preventing any major damage.
The incident took place on July 11 but the video was only made public now, drawing renewed attention to Hagia Sophia’s Byzantine heritage.
The man tried to ignite the Bible behind the lectern.
According to a police statement, the suspect wore a red cap and partially covered his face as he ignited a Bible near a column behind several lecterns.
Flames briefly spread to the carpet before security personnel intervened and extinguished them.
Police officers stationed nearby detained the 42-year-old man, who was later arrested.
Authorities said he has a criminal history, including previous charges of assault, threats, verbal abuse, and car theft.
Local media reported he has also been admitted to psychiatric hospitals five times in the past.
During a court hearing, the suspect requested placement in a mental health facility.
A man who attempted to set fire to Hagia Sophia and subsequently fled the scene was arrested in Istanbul and sent to prison.
The man used a Bible to set the fire and suffers from mental problems and has a lengthy criminal record, according to Turkish media reports.
The suspect, identified as a 42 year old resident of Istanbul, reportedly entered the mosque after prayers, hid the Bible under a wooden Quran stand (rehl), poured oil over them, and set them on fire.
Before the fire could spread or cause damage, the mosque’s imam intervened immediately, extinguished the flames, and alerted the security personnel on duty.
Security officials arrested the man on the spot and recovered flammable material from his possession. He was handed over to police, and an investigation is underway.
The suspect’s identity and motive have not yet been disclosed. Authorities say the case is in its early stages, and full details will be shared with the media after the investigation concludes.
