Violanta: Charges upgraded over the deadly explosion

The Public Prosecutor of First Instance in Trikala, Efthychia Meletopoulou, has proceeded with upgrading the indictment concerning the fatal explosion at the “Violanta” industrial facility.

After the collection of new and compelling evidence by the Arson Crimes Directorate (DAEE), the charges against the company owner, the safety technician and the shift supervisor were converted from manslaughter by negligence to homicide with possible intent, as reported by ERT.

The same stricter classification now also applies to the offenses of explosion and arson, while the charge of causing bodily harm on multiple counts remains in place. The prosecutor, who is actively involved in all aspects of the investigation, was led to this decision as the preliminary investigative material indicates criminal omissions and violations of legislation on multiple levels.

According to information from ERT, investigations revealed that five months earlier there had been serious reports of gas odors, which were never substantially examined. Sources state that a private expert who had been called in to assess the situation withdrew after a financial disagreement with the owner, leaving the issue unresolved.

Furthermore, it was established that the underground pipelines lacked the necessary certifications, while the above-ground tanks had already been deemed unsuitable since 2019. Specifically, the tanks were located just 5.4 meters from the boundaries of the facility, whereas the law requires a minimum distance of 7.5 meters. Despite the warnings, the tanks were not relocated, and it is noteworthy that they were not recorded on any official topographical diagram.

All of the above evidence is now in the possession of the Arson Crimes Directorate (DAEE). The case file remains open and is expected to be completed once DAEE officials submit their final report, which will precisely determine the causes that led to the tragedy.