Marfin Case: Suspects Arrested 16 Years After Deadly Athens Bank Arson

Two men have been arrested 16 years after a deadly arson attack on a Marfin Bank branch in Athens, an event that shook Greece and claimed three lives, including an unborn child.

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I feel devastated, all the bad memories we've lived through for 16 years have returned... We hope this time the real murderers will be found, that there will be tangible evidence, and that justice will be served.

The arrests followed extensive investigations across several Athens neighborhoods. The two suspects, both 42 years old, were brought to court wearing bulletproof vests. One concealed his face with a surgical mask, while the other did not hide his features. They face charges of serial premeditated homicide.

Their defense lawyer, Ms. Paparroussou, described the case file as "unsubstantiated." She pointed out that an email, which initiated the investigation, had not been verified for its sender and constituted an "illegal piece of evidence." The accused maintain their innocence.

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With 16 years having passed, we truly hope this time the evidence will lead to the real perpetrators... we are waiting to see how the case unfolds.

Family members of one of the arrested men expressed shock at the sudden police search of their home, describing themselves as a quiet family with no such issues. Meanwhile, survivors of the tragedy shared mixed emotions. Maria Karayanni stated, "I feel devastated, all the bad memories we've lived through for 16 years have returned... We hope this time the real murderers will be found, that there will be tangible evidence, and that justice will be served." Elias Bouris, who rescued colleagues during the attack, and eyewitness journalist Giannis Koronaios, expressed cautious optimism, hoping the evidence would lead to the perpetrators.

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I am skeptical. I hope the actual perpetrators are found.

The two arrested men have been granted an extension to provide their testimony on Tuesday. Separately, a 46-year-old woman accused of involvement in the Marfin case has contacted authorities and is expected to return to Greece from Great Britain.

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The case file is unsubstantiated.