Apartment building collapses in Petralona: Increased readiness ordered for neighboring EMAK units

A large-scale search and rescue operation is in full swing following the collapse of a four-story apartment building at 22 Alkminis Street in Petralona, Athens. Strong forces from the Fire Service and the 1st EMAK (Special Unit for Disaster Response) are actively working at the site.

Two specially trained search and rescue dogs are assisting the efforts. The Deputy Chief of the Fire Service, Lieutenant General Anastasios Pappas, is present and coordinating the operations. In a precautionary measure, neighboring EMAK units have been put on increased readiness to offer support should the situation require it.

Initial unconfirmed reports suggest one person may be trapped inside the rubble. The Fire Service announced that the investigations are continuing with intensive efforts. The collapse occurred suddenly, with images showing the building crumbling as if it were made of paper. Other recent news includes the dismantling of a football fan group involved in drug dealing and stadium attacks in Thessaloniki, and five detentions related to the Petralona building collapse.