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Security guards at Istanbul’s historic Hagia Sophia stopped a man from setting a fire inside the site last month, Turkish authorities said Monday.
The incident occurred late July 11 when the suspect, wearing a red cap and partially covering his face, lit a Bible on fire near a column behind several lecterns, according to a police statement. The flames spread briefly to the carpet before being extinguished by mosque security.
Officers stationed nearby detained the 42-year-old man, who was later arrested. Authorities said he has a history of criminal offenses including assault, threats, and car theft. Local reports also indicated he has been hospitalized for psychiatric treatment on multiple occasions.
During a court appearance, the man requested to be sent to a mental health facility, local media said.
With information from Hurriyet Daily News.
