Long-lasting propane leak at “Violanta” – Fire Department findings
Διαβάζεται σε 3'
The Fire Department’s conclusions regarding the causes that led to the deadly explosion at the Violanta biscuit factory. The propane leak into the ground was “long-lasting” and “extensive.”
- 28 Ιανουαρίου 2026 17:50
“Extended” and “widespread” was the propane leak inside the ground at the “Violanda” biscuit factory, according to the Fire Brigade’s report on the deadly explosion at the factory that claimed the lives of five workers.
“This significant propane leak, through the ground, moved approximately 25 meters and was contained in a basement area, where, with the presence of sparks caused by the electromechanical equipment of the installation, it led to an explosion,” stated Brigadier General Anastasios Michalopoulos, the commander of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection (ESKEDIK), in an emergency update on Wednesday afternoon (28/01).
The findings from the investigation confirm all the complaints and reports from workers that were ignored by the management regarding the strong smell of gas in the factory.
According to Mr. Michalopoulos, during the technical investigation after the tragedy, “two above-ground propane tanks, with capacities of 5,000 and 9,000 liters respectively, were located about 30 meters from the explosion site. The investigation found ice in the pipes of the 5,000-liter tank, indicating recent operation. The tanks were interconnected through underground piping, which passed under an asphalted area and entered the ground floor of the building, supplying the ovens.”
As explained by the ESKEDIK commander, the inspections revealed a “leak in the ground, which led to an excavation to a depth of about 60 centimeters, where an extensive leak was detected inside the ground. The leak is estimated to have been ongoing for several months, with detection instruments recording exceptionally high concentrations of propane.”
The emergency briefing was held while the owner of the “Violanda” biscuit factory, the safety officer, and the person responsible for the fatal shift were facing the Public Prosecutor of Trikala.
The three arrested individuals, who arrived at the court amid an extremely heavy atmosphere following the deadly tragedy that claimed the lives of five female workers, are facing very serious charges.
The case file includes, among other things, charges of manslaughter by negligence, causing an explosion and arson by negligence, and causing bodily harm.
