Zeybek raises allegations over conditions at Greek military training centre
Independent MP Hüseyin Zeybek has raised concerns in the Greek Parliament over alleged health and safety problems at the artillery training centre in Thebes, Greece, calling on the Ministry of National Defence to investigate reports of electric shocks, poor hygiene, inadequate food services and overcrowded accommodation.
In a parliamentary question containing 13 questions, the MP representing İskeçe (Xanthi) called for a comprehensive investigation into complaints reportedly made by new recruits and their families, as well as reports published in the media.
The allegations concern the Thebes Artillery Training Centre (KEPB–KEN), where approximately 2,000 recruits are reportedly stationed. Zeybek also called for an investigation into reports that more than 40 soldiers had experienced symptoms of illness.
ALLEGED ELECTRIC SHOCKS IN SHOWERS
One of the most serious allegations concerns at least three recruits who were reportedly exposed to electric shocks while showering. Reports also suggested that one soldier had been taken to hospital.
Zeybek called for detailed inspections of the electrical installations in the shower facilities, including grounding systems and other protective safety measures, to establish whether the facilities comply with safety requirements.
The parliamentary question also cited complaints about bedbugs and rodents in accommodation blocks, as well as allegedly inadequate cleaning and pest-control measures.
Zeybek further requested an investigation into reports that around 150 soldiers in some buildings had to share just five toilets and five showers. He called for the authorities to assess whether the accommodation meets the required hygiene and public health standards.
MORE THAN 40 ILLNESS CASES REPORTED
Concerns have also been raised over catering arrangements at the training centre. According to the complaints cited by Zeybek, dining facilities have struggled to accommodate the number of recruits, resulting in long queues and overcrowding.
The MP also highlighted reports of more than 40 soldiers experiencing gastrointestinal infections or symptoms potentially associated with food poisoning.
He called for the causes of the reported illnesses to be established through comprehensive health inspections of drinking water, food supplies and kitchen facilities. He also requested laboratory testing where necessary and called for the findings to be made public.
The reported cases have not been independently established in the information provided, and the allegations require clarification from the relevant authorities.
CALL FOR INVESTIGATION AND URGENT ACTION
Zeybek stressed that compulsory military service does not justify neglecting the health, safety or dignity of recruits.
He called on the Ministry of National Defence to disclose official data relating to the allegations and publish the results of technical and health inspections conducted at the facility.
The MP also asked whether an administrative investigation had been launched and called for a concrete action plan, with a clear timetable, to address any deficiencies identified.
He further urged the authorities to suspend the use of facilities found to fall short of safety and hygiene standards and relocate the soldiers housed there to suitable accommodation.
Zeybek also emphasized that recruits must be able to report complaints without fear of pressure or adverse treatment.
He concluded that ensuring soldiers' health, safety and living conditions consistent with human dignity is a fundamental responsibility of the Ministry of National Defence that cannot be postponed.
