FranceThe mayor of Aubagne, Jean-Pierre Squillari, admitted to temporarily borrowing firefighting equipment from the local fire department to protect his secondary residence in Barjols during a recent wildfire in the Var region. The equipment included a portable pump, three 20-meter hoses, and a fire hose nozzle, which he returned the next day in good condition. According to a local digital media outlet, Brut Aubagne, the fire chief was surprised by the request, but Squillari reportedly used his former rank as a lieutenant colonel in the fire service to justify the action. In response to inquiries from ICI Provence, Squillari stated he did not demand the equipment but requested it politely, though he acknowledged using a 'determined tone' with the fire department staff. He claimed this practice aligns with traditions within the fire service and aimed to act as a responsible citizen to protect his property while local firefighters were unable to reach certain high-risk areas.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both the accusation from a local media outlet and the mayor’s explanation, providing a balanced view of the situation without overtly favoring either side. It includes quotes from both the critic and the mayor, allowing readers to form their own judgment.
