A fatal arson attack in Thessaloniki has triggered an urgent investigation by Greece’s Anti-Terrorist Unit. Authorities are reviewing frame-by-frame footage from security cameras in search of clues leading to the perpetrators—who allegedly carried out the assault using gasoline-filled bottles.
Three Suspects Identified on Camera
According to police reporter Vasilis Labropoulos, three individuals carried out the attack—and all were captured on surveillance video. Footage shows the motorcycle used by two of the suspects, as well as earlier recordings from the days before the attack, suggesting the group conducted surveillance of the site in advance. Investigators hope this material will help reconstruct how the arson was planned and executed.
Links to Anti-Authoritarian Circles
Preliminary findings point to senior figures within Greece’s anti-authoritarian movement as potential masterminds behind the attack. These individuals are believed to have recruited younger associates—some of whom have been involved in past occupation movements across the country.
Tragic Outcome and Political Context
The attack resulted in the death of Vagia Nestora, mother of Afroditi Nestora, a Blue Party (New Democracy) councilor in Thessaloniki. The case is being treated with the highest priority, with investigators focusing not only on identifying the direct perpetrators but also on uncovering those who may have orchestrated or facilitated the act.
Challenges and Progress in the Investigation
Although suspects appear masked in the videos—making immediate identification difficult—analysts believe they are likely individuals previously known to authorities for involvement in similar gasoline-bottle attacks and clashes with police in Thessaloniki. Investigators also assess that the three New Democracy officials targeted were chosen precisely because they lacked police protection, making them more vulnerable.
Authorities estimate the direct perpetrators are likely young adults, while those who planned and directed the attack may have remained at a distance from the scene. The investigation continues intensively, aiming to fully map the suspects’ movements and unravel the operational structure behind the terrorist act.