Suspects' motorcycle and DNA trace being sought in Thessaloniki arson attack

The investigation into the horrific arson attacks in Thessaloniki that resulted in the death of Vaya Nistor has reached a critical stage. It has been learned that a small motorcycle, thought to have been used by the suspects involved in the incidents, was identified by the counter-terrorism units of the Greek police. A detailed examination has been initiated to determine whether this motorcycle was moving in the same region on the day of the attacks and prior. Police teams are meticulously analyzing data on the vehicle's license plate and movement route to identify the attackers. This development added a new dimension to the investigation in terms of determining the escape route and the places where the suspects received logistical support.

One of the most important pieces of evidence in the investigation is the insulation tapes found in mechanisms such as the molotov cocktails used in the attack. Unfortunately, these tape fragments were found during the examinations at the homes of the other two targets, Zisi Ioakimovic and Savva Anastasiyadis, not at the home where Vaya Nistor lost her life. Authorities sent the evidence to the laboratory to determine if fingerprints or genetic material remain on the surface of these tapes. It is hoped that this biological data will be a decisive key in deciphering the identities of the individuals who carried out three different attacks and caused the death of one woman and injuries to others.

The analysis of security camera footage is also vital for the police, just as much as physical evidence. According to obtained information, the face of one of the attackers can be seen more clearly than the other two because he was not wearing a helmet. These images are being examined step by step to determine the physical characteristics of the attackers and the movement style they used while escaping. However, in the image scans made so far, the stage of fully identifying or matching the exact identities of the suspects has not been achieved. The police are checking whether the facial features and body language characteristics in these video records match the databases used to catch the suspects.

Initial assessments and intelligence information point to strong evidence that the group carrying out the attacks consisted of young people. Police officials are focusing on the possibility that these young people did not plan the action on their own, but were encouraged or directed by more experienced individuals or organizations who are currently outside the scope of the investigation. This situation makes it necessary to conduct a wider investigation to fully understand the context and perpetrators of the action. Uncovering the real organizers behind the suspects is seen as a more complex process than identifying the youths.

Regarding the public statement on the issue, instead of Greek Minister of Labour and Social Security Yannis Vrutsis and Minister of Interior Takis Theodorikakos, Minister of Citizen Protection Mihalis Hrisohoidis was the name reflected in the media. Minister Hrisohoidis clearly stated that there is no new wave of terrorism or a 'new terrorism' movement in the country, emphasizing that the public should not be concerned. The minister stated that the incident was not a political terrorist act and the security forces had the issue fully under control, saying he believed the perpetrators would be brought to justice as soon as possible. Furthermore, Minister Hrisohoidis conveyed his condolences to the family and relatives of Vaya Nistor, who lost her life, and wished the injured a speedy recovery.