Authorities have reopened the investigation into the deadly arson attack on Marfin Bank in Athens in May 2010—leading to three new arrests. The breakthrough came after a set of photographs and an anonymous email prompted Greek investigators to revisit the long-dormant case.
Key Evidence: Photos from a Seized Computer
The images were recovered from the computer of an anarchist arrested in 2020 for weapons possession. According to investigative journalist Vasilis Lampropoulos, the photos clearly show individuals wearing black clothing—the same attire used during the Molotov cocktail attack on the bank—and even capture details like hand-drawn symbols and a cross on a backpack carried by one suspect. These visual clues helped authorities identify and locate those involved.
New Arrests and International Cooperation
In the early hours of Monday, 13 July 2026, UK police arrested a 46-year-old woman at London’s Gatwick Airport. She was subject to an Interpol Red Notice related to the Marfin attack. Though she had previously informed Greek authorities of her intention to travel voluntarily to Greece, British police detained her upon arrival. She continues to maintain her innocence.
Organized Structure and Broader Network
According to police, the Marfin attack was highly coordinated—carried out by 12 people split into two teams: seven targeted a nearby bookstore, while five attacked the bank. To avoid identification, participants used numbers instead of names. The three recently arrested individuals were assigned numbers 8, 10, and 11.
The suspect known as ‘No. 8’—a 42-year-old man described as tall (1.91m) and from an affluent family—was previously arrested on drug charges. He is believed to be the one who smashed the bank’s window with a metal bar and carried a distinctive backpack featuring a hand-drawn motif and a cross.
The second 42-year-old suspect, identified as ‘No. 11’, is described as an environmental activist who previously lived in squats in central Athens.
Links to Other Crimes
Investigators say some of those involved are connected to a wider anarchist network active in Greece over recent years—including actions following the dismantling of the militant group 17 November. That network is suspected of involvement in high-profile incidents such as the 2004 kidnapping of businessman Giorgos Mylonas and attacks on prison staff. Additional charges against the suspects include assaults on public buildings, including the former Athens Prefecture office.
The new evidence not only advances the Marfin case but may also help resolve other unsolved attacks tied to the same circle.