Soldier Jailed in Greece for Threatening Tavern Owner with Gun

A 20-year-old soldier has been sent to prison in Heraklion, Greece, after appearing before an investigating judge. He faces charges for allegedly threatening a tavern owner with a firearm on the afternoon of July 12 in the Treis Ekklisies area of Heraklion. Reports indicate the young soldier threatened the owner with a gun, even as a friend and others tried to restrain him.

The soldier's friend reportedly struggled with him to disarm him, ultimately throwing the weapon onto a rooftop to end the confrontation. The incident, which occurred in full view of patrons, caused significant alarm. Although the worst was averted and the pistol was hidden, police were immediately mobilized.

In addition to the 20-year-old soldier, his 25-year-old friend was also arrested. The friend is accused of possessing a firearm and ammunition, and of harboring the soldier. However, he was later released without any restrictions. The soldier, who had recently been involved in another incident, was deemed a temporary detainee and taken to prison.

The defense lawyer for the 25-year-old emphasized that her client acted to prevent a worse outcome and to secure the weapon, an action she argued should be seen as commendable rather than punishable. The legal proceedings took place in Heraklion, with relatives and friends of both young men gathering outside the courthouse.