Two suspects — a 29-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman — were remanded in custody following their brief appearances before the examining magistrate in Thessaloniki. They are accused of carrying out an arson attack on the home of Aphrodite Nestora’s family in the early hours of 1 July. The fire claimed the life of her mother, Vagia Nestora, and injured four others.
Charges and Denials
The pair, identified as alleged direct perpetrators who used gasoline canisters in the attack, denied all charges against them — five serious felonies in total: murder with possible intent (both completed and attempted), membership in a terrorist organization, explosion, arson, and violation of weapons law (related to possession of explosive materials).
‘Framing’ Claimed in Brief Hearing
According to reports, during their short hearing, the two defendants — known to authorities for their involvement in anti-establishment circles — claimed they were victims of a ‘setup’, alleging it was being ‘used as a communication tool’ by state institutions. The decision to detain them provisionally followed a joint recommendation by the examining magistrate and the public prosecutor.
Third Suspect to Appear Tomorrow
A third suspect, a 24-year-old man, was granted an extension and is scheduled to appear before the same magistrate tomorrow, 15 July. Authorities allege he provided the abandoned house used as both a base and hideout before and after the attack. During preliminary questioning, he reportedly claimed he did not know the other two suspects and had handed over the keys to friends — without knowing the purpose for which the property would be used.
Legal Framework
The prosecution in this case is in rem, meaning it targets the criminal acts under investigation rather than specific individuals. Formal attribution of charges to each suspect will occur during the main investigative phase.
Protest Outside Court
While the hearings were underway, supporters gathered outside the Thessaloniki courts to express solidarity with the two detained suspects. Enhanced security measures were deployed by the Hellenic Police both inside and outside the courthouse.