Elite search and rescue force to be established in Komotini
Efforts have begun to establish a branch of the Elite Search and Rescue Force (EPOMEA) in Komotini to strengthen disaster response capabilities in the region.
Miltos Benakis, President of the EPOMEA Thessaloniki branch and Vice President of EPOMEA Greece, visited East Macedonia and Thrace Governor Christodoulos Topsidis and Komotini Mayor Yiannis Garanis. During these meetings, Benakis introduced EPOMEA's branches and shared insights into the group's search and rescue missions in Greece and abroad, including operations in Turkey, Albania, and other countries affected by earthquakes, floods, and fires.
The decision to create a branch in Komotini, serving the entire East Macedonia and Thrace region, was made by EPOMEA's board. The new branch will develop professional teams with specialized training to engage in international rescue efforts and collaborate with neighboring countries' rescue units.
Benakis was joined by Sibel Mustafaoğlu and Mihalis Ragusis, who have been assigned to oversee the establishment and eventual independent operation of the Komotini branch.
Discussions between Komotini Municipality and EPOMEA continue regarding securing a suitable facility for the new branch, which aims to become a pivotal force in regional and international disaster response efforts.
