Arrests in Greece over 2010 bank attack during protests

Greek police have arrested two individuals suspected of involvement in a 2010 firebomb attack on a Marfin Bank branch in Athens. The attack, carried out with Molotov cocktails during widespread protests against austerity measures, resulted in the deaths of three bank employees: one man and two women, one of whom was pregnant.

The victims were trapped inside the bank as the fire rapidly spread. Despite attempts to reach a small balcony, they were unable to escape the smoke and flames. Witnesses reported that protesters in the crowd urged that the employees be left to burn for working during a general strike. Firefighters arrived late due to the large crowds and protests.

These arrests mark the first significant development in the case since the initial suspect was acquitted of charges related to the firebombing. Greek authorities reopened the investigation in 2020. In 2013, three bank officials were convicted for failing to implement adequate safety measures within the attacked branch.

The 2010 attack occurred early in Greece's nearly decade-long financial crisis, which saw the imposition of strict austerity measures, including significant cuts to pensions and salaries, in exchange for international bailout packages. The crisis devastated the Greek economy, leading to widespread poverty and unemployment rates soaring to around 27%. While the economy has since gradually recovered, the crisis left deep scars on Greek society. Police also made arrests related to recent bombing attacks targeting members of the ruling New Democracy party, which resulted in one death and four injuries.