Mystery surrounds 'Russian missile part' found on Crete; second incident in days

An unusual metallic object, resembling a missile component, has washed ashore on a beach in Kalos Horio, Agios Nikolaos, Crete, prompting concern and investigation. This is the second such discovery in a matter of days, following a similar find on the rocky coast of Agios Antonios the previous week. Initial assessments by authorities suggest the object is harmless to the public and is believed to be a part of a Russian-made anti-aircraft missile system utilized by the Greek Army. The object appears as a metallic sphere. If initial reports are accurate, this could be a second component from the same missile that fell into the sea recently, or it could belong to a separate missile that also ended up in the sea under unknown circumstances. The presence of Russian anti-aircraft missiles in Crete is confirmed, but questions linger about whether a test launch occurred or if these components were intentionally or accidentally jettisoned into the sea, and by whom. The appearance of such mechanical parts is causing unease. As with the previous incident, the Hellenic Coast Guard and Greek Police cordoned off the beach. A military team was called to the scene to remove the object, which was expected to be cleared by Sunday evening. No panic ensued, and no beachgoers were affected by the discovery.