Athens explosion injures four as police investigate possible criminal trap
Four people, including a police officer who was seriously injured, were hurt when an improvised explosive device detonated inside an apartment building in Athens’ Kolonos district on Wednesday, ERTnews reported.
The explosion occurred shortly before 4 p.m. on Platonos Street after police responded to a report of a bag containing suspected drugs. The device detonated when an officer accidentally pressed a button while inspecting the bag.
The injured officer was taken to the 401 Military Hospital for surgery, while two civilians received treatment at Evangelismos Hospital. Initial reports indicated that the officer’s life was not in danger.
Drug trafficking links under investigation
Police are examining two main scenarios: whether the bag was prepared for delivery to another person or whether the device was intended to target a specific individual in a criminal dispute.
According to ERTnews, the bag contained suspected narcotics, a precision scale and an improvised explosive device.
Public Order Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis said the incident appeared to involve ordinary criminal activity rather than terrorism. Police spokesperson Konstantia Dimoglidou said investigators were focusing on possible links to drug trafficking.
Forensic experts are examining recovered components, including a button, circuit board, springs and a battery, to determine how the device was activated and identify those responsible.
The investigation is being conducted by the Directorate for Combating Organized Crime, with assistance from the Homicide Department and the Narcotics Division. No arrests have been announced.
Source: ERTnews
