Photo credit: www.bbc.com

Explosion Rocks Central Athens, No Casualties Reported

In a significant incident on Friday evening, an explosion occurred in central Athens, specifically near the headquarters of the Hellenic Train railway company. Fortunately, authorities have confirmed that there were no fatalities or injuries resulting from the blast.

Security cameras captured the moment the explosion erupted, reportedly from a backpack left outside the office building. Local police reported that they had received anonymous alerts from media outlets prior to the incident, indicating a potential attack. The explosion took place in proximity to Leoforos Andrea Siggrou, one of Athens’ busiest thoroughfares.

Transport Minister Christos Staikouras described the explosion as a “criminal act” that posed a significant threat to public safety. He noted the incident’s timing during peak traffic, emphasizing the danger it posed to both employees and pedestrians in a heavily populated area.

Local news organizations, including Efsyn and Zougla, which were alerted before the explosion, reported that the device appeared to have been concealed within a padlocked backpack and placed on a scooter lacking license plates. A police bomb disposal team was dispatched but arrived after the device had detonated.

Minister Staikouras further condemned the incident, asserting, “Nothing justifies terrorism, and no act of violence can deliver justice.” He urged that the authorities and judicial system must take appropriate actions in response to the event.

The Hellenic Train company reassured the public that no employees or bystanders were injured, stating that the explosion resulted in only minor material damage. The company also denounced all acts of violence and the hostile environment these events create, which they believe undermines societal progress.

The background to this explosion reflects broader tensions in Greece, particularly in light of lingering public outrage over a catastrophic railway accident that occurred over two years ago. In February 2023, a tragic collision between a freight train and a passenger train resulted in the deaths of 57 individuals, many of whom were young students. This accident has since prompted numerous protests across the country, including those held earlier this year to commemorate the second anniversary of the tragedy.

Many demonstrations turned violent, with protesters clashing with police, resulting in officers deploying tear gas and water cannons in response to aggressive actions such as rock-throwing and the use of petrol bombs. An official inquiry into the rail disaster determined that it stemmed from human error, inadequate maintenance, and insufficient staffing levels. While the judicial proceedings related to the crash are still pending, the community remains on high alert for any further incidents of violence.

Source
www.bbc.com