Fatal Bombing Spree Targets Ruling Party Officials in Thessaloniki

Three improvised explosive devices detonated in Thessaloniki between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1, targeting the homes and vehicles of members of Greece’s conservative New Democracy party.

Coordinated Attacks on Political Targets

According to the Greek portal Capital.gr, three improvised explosive devices were detonated in Thessaloniki early Wednesday morning. The attacks specifically targeted residences and vehicles associated with members of the ruling New Democracy party.

Casualties and Fatalities

Police report that the most powerful blast was likely triggered by gas canisters placed in the attic of a residential building, injuring five people. Among the victims was New Democracy politician Afroditi Nestora. The newspaper eKathimerini confirmed that Nestora’s 72-year-old mother succumbed to her injuries in the intensive care unit after suffering burns over 80 percent of her body and subsequent multi-organ failure.

Suspects and Targets

The two other attacks resulted in no injuries. Investigators believe these incidents were aimed at Zisis Ioakeimobits, chairman of the regional New Democracy steering committee, and former party MP Savvas Anastasiadis. Preliminary findings suggest the perpetrators operated via motorcycle, detonating the three incendiary devices in sequence.

Government Response

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited party representatives in Thessaloniki, condemning the events as a cowardly and murderous attack. He expressed full confidence in law enforcement to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Mitsotakis emphasized that there is no place for violence in a civilized society, stating that those who use the guise of social struggle for such actions are common criminals. Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis added that the attacks were intended to target the party and its underlying principles.