Authorities in Thessaloniki are intensifying their investigation into the fatal terrorist attack that killed New Democracy MP Vagia Nestor. Three individuals have been arrested and brought before the prosecutor under strict security measures, charged with five serious criminal offenses—including completed and attempted murder with possible intent, and participation in a terrorist organization.
The Accused
The 29-year-old and 26-year-old suspects—already known to authorities—are alleged to be the direct perpetrators of the attack carried out with gas canisters. The third suspect, a 24-year-old man, is accused of owning the apartment on Papadiamanti Street identified by police as the operational base for the crime.
‘I Don’t Know My Co-Accused’
In an interview with the MEGA TV program Exelixis Tora (Developments Now), the 24-year-old apartment owner denied all charges. He stated he had no prior relationship with the other two suspects and claimed he was wrongfully drawn into the case.
“I deeply regret what happened,” he said. “My involvement ends with leasing a property owned by my family—which had already been seized by the bank. I did not hand over the keys to my co-accused. I don’t know them at all. I gave the keys to people I trusted, who have not yet been named as suspects in this case. I’m unaware of their intentions—or whether they’re connected to the attack at all. I intend to tell the full truth before the examining magistrate.”
He expressed deep concern over his situation and said he plans to pursue legal action to prove his innocence.
Surveillance Footage Played Key Role
Security camera footage proved decisive. Though the couple reportedly planned their movements meticulously to avoid detection, two critical missteps ultimately exposed them.
The day before the attack, they arrived separately at the location using different taxis, following opposite routes and disembarking at distant points. During their walk, they even used an umbrella to obscure their faces from surveillance cameras.
Hours after the reconnaissance, the 29-year-old appeared at his workplace—a Thessaloniki pastry shop—as if nothing had happened. Meanwhile, the 26-year-old fled to Paleochora in Chania, seeking refuge at a friend’s home.
The Mobile Phone That Sealed the Case
During the police raid that led to his arrest, the 29-year-old tried to dispose of his mobile phone by throwing it from his balcony—but officers recovered it.