Tempi Train Disaster: Families Deny Illegal Cargo Claims

In a definitive statement, Christos Vlachos and Nikos Plakias, who lost loved ones in the tragic Tempi train disaster two years ago, categorically denied ever believing there was illegal cargo on the train. During an event titled ‘The Invisible Dimension’ held in Karditsa to honor the 57 victims, Christos Vlachos, father of Vaios who died in the tragedy, emphasized that he never believed in the theory of illegal cargo. “I always considered it inappropriate and untimely; it only benefits some people,” he stated. Evidence now overwhelmingly proves the absence of illegal cargo, including audio from stationmasters, videos from Leptokarya and Kapernarou, as well as reports from the National Technical University of Athens and the State General Chemical Laboratory. The explosion’s cause is attributed to engine components, particularly silicone oils that can dangerously combust or release harmful gases. Both families are adamant in their fight for truth and justice, criticizing the government for withholding the results of the investigation by the National Technical University of Athens for over a year. Nikos Plakias, who lost two daughters, echoed this sentiment, accusing all political parties of incompetence and self-interest.