Attacks with explosive devices on homes of politicians in Thessaloniki – one dead and four wounded
A series of attacks using improvised explosive devices on the residences of three New Democracy politicians in Thessaloniki left one person dead and four wounded. The counter-terrorism service has taken over the investigation.
Attacks with explosive devices on homes of politicians in Thessaloniki – one dead and four wounded
Three explosions at the homes of politicians from the ruling New Democracy party occurred in the early hours of Wednesday in Thessaloniki, leaving one dead and four wounded. The attacks were carried out using improvised devices constructed from camping gas cylinders, according to the latest police announcement reported by news agency AFP.
The targets of the attacks included the home of former parliamentary candidate Aphrodite Nestorov, where she herself, her parents and two other residents of the apartment building were wounded. Her 72-year-old mother succumbed to her injuries – burns covering more than 80 per cent of her body – following her transfer to hospital, according to newspaper Kathimerini. The other two targets were the residence of the party's executive committee chairman Zisis Giakoumovits and the home of former MP Savvas Anastasiadis.
Greek police believe all three attacks were carried out by the same perpetrator or perpetrators. Initial findings indicate the attackers were travelling on motorcycles. The counter-terrorism service has taken over the investigation, working with local police forces. Security camera footage is being gathered to identify those responsible. No one has claimed responsibility for the attacks. In the past, similar actions have been carried out by small far-left groups, Kathimerini noted.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed outrage at the "cowardly terrorist" attacks and travelled to Thessaloniki to show solidarity with his colleagues. "We will not tolerate any new form of terrorism. Those times have passed," he emphasised. Opposition left-wing parties have also condemned the attacks.
News agency AP notes that Greece continues to experience sporadic attacks by unknown armed groups against the property of politicians, police officers and other representatives of the authorities, although most cause only material damage. The most radical far-left organisation "17 November", which operated from 1973, was dismantled in 2002. Smaller far-left, primarily anarchist groups, which attempted to continue its activities, have since been dissolved or ceased operating.
Source: Aktuality.sk
Source: Aktuality