Panic in Gastouni: Kiosk Set Ablaze After Previous Attack by 20 Roma

Panic gripped the town of Gastouni early Monday morning as unknown assailants set fire to a shop that was being prepared to open as a kiosk. This latest act of vandalism follows a violent assault on the same shop owner in February, when a group of approximately 20 Roma individuals attacked him and his premises. The perpetrators used a park bench to break the shop's facade, entered the interior, and ignited a fire in the storage area, causing severe material damage.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, reigniting fears and outrage. The shop owner had previously expressed his fear for his family's safety and had decided to close his kiosk after the February attack, stating it wasn't worth continuing under such circumstances. Despite his intention to start a new business endeavor, this new attack has revived a climate of fear and indignation.

Authorities have launched an investigation, with police forces and the Director of the Ilia Police Directorate responding to the scene. Security forces are collecting evidence from surveillance cameras, witness testimonies, and any available information to identify the perpetrators. The community is urgently calling for increased police presence and measures to ensure their safety, as this recurring violence threatens the sense of security in Gastouni. The Greek media, including Ta Nea, is closely following this developing story, highlighting the community's distress and the ongoing efforts to bring the culprits to justice.