29-year-old suspect's mobile phone becomes critical evidence in Selanik arson attacks

A new development has occurred in the investigation into the deadly arson attack on Afrodit Nestora's home in Selanik, Greece. The Counter-Terrorism Service seized the mobile phone of a 29-year-old man, one of the three suspects allegedly involved in the incident. During a police raid, the arrested suspect tried to throw his phone out the window to destroy evidence. After the device was found intact, authorities began examining the suspect's phone calls and contact list. Additionally, authorities are investigating whether there is a claim of responsibility for the attack among the digital evidence.

The three suspects will face very serious charges, with the main charge determined to be homicide with possible intent. The charges include both completed murder and attempted murder. The 29-year-old suspect is alleged to have placed the incendiary device at the entrance of the apartment building where the attack took place. It was reported that the 26-year-old female suspect, captured in Girit, fled to the island after the deadly attack. It was stated that both suspects belong to anti-authoritarian circles and are known to the judicial authorities.

According to the investigation file, the third suspect involved in the incident is a 24-year-old man who is the manager of the apartment where the couple stayed before and after the attack. Authorities determined that the perpetrator or perpetrators surveyed the route for days before carrying out the attack and knew the area in detail. The act was carried out at around 4 a.m., with masked faces and taking quick steps to avoid drawing attention. Partially opening the curtains, the attackers crossed Vasilissis Olga street and reached the Gravya area. It was stated that the perpetrators, who left the area after leaving the explosive device, completed the act resulting in the first explosion occurring at approximately 4:35.

Just before returning to the safe house where they felt secure, they made a critical mistake and took off their masks. Right at that moment, a security camera in the area successfully recorded the faces of the perpetrators. These images played a crucial role in the police identifying the suspects and connecting the events. Authorities announced that, considering the arson attacks as a whole, the same group acted by splitting into two subgroups. It was revealed that there are three more unidentified individuals involved in the attacks on the homes of Savas Anastasiadis and Zisis Ioakimoviç.

The investigation continues to expand in the light of security camera footage, digital evidence, and testimonies. The data to be obtained from the 29-year-old suspect's mobile phone is expected to illuminate the full dimension of the events and possible other connections. Authorities are focused on investigating the suspects' organic ties to anti-authoritarian circles and potential collaborators. Recent similar acts of violence increasing in Greece have brought the government's and security forces' counter-terrorism and anti-extremism policies back to the agenda. While the public closely follows the progress of the case and the scope of the investigation, authorities announced that additional security measures have been taken to prevent similar incidents.