Amid increasing tensions surrounding anti-establishment groups, Greek anti-terrorism police have apprehended a 49-year-old teacher following the discovery of a significant cache of weapons and explosives in central Athens.
Significant Findings
On Wednesday, law enforcement officials revealed the uncovering of hand grenades, various firearms, and over 12 kg of explosives, including TNT and ammonium dynamite, within a flat that the teacher had rented since 2008. The owner of the flat reported the suspicious items, claiming to have been unaware of their presence.
Investigation Details
- The items have been sent for analysis at a crime laboratory.
- CCTV footage played a crucial role in tracking down the suspect, who used false identification to rent the property.
The teacher had initially presented his intention to use the space for storing books. He is expected to appear before a prosecutor in the coming days.
Links to Recent Explosions
This discovery follows a bomb explosion that occurred on 31 October 2023, which resulted in the death of a man and injuries to a woman. The anti-terrorism unit is exploring potential connections between these two cases, with some reports indicating a resurgence of activity from guerrilla factions.
A History of Violence
Greece’s historical context reveals a long-standing issue with political violence, particularly from anarchist and leftist groups. The landscape began to change following the police shooting of a teenager in December 2008, leading to intensified attacks. While the frequency of such incidents has decreased in recent years, authorities remain vigilant.