Stories from Athens · Greece

Greek authorities are reportedly using targeted pushbacks against migrants along the Ephros River border with Turkey to prevent crossings. A BBC report documented these actions, though the Greek public has had little exposure to the findings.

This distinction was made regarding cases where individuals are detained in Greek prisons. This distinction explains why certain individuals remain in Greek prisons despite lacking evidence of financial gain.

Special forces conducted a maritime operation in an area of international waters under Greek jurisdiction. The operation involved the use of megaphones and drones. No injuries were reported following the blitz.

Activists and NGOs report that migrants arriving in Greece are being criminalized. The event included workshops, an art exhibition, and panel discussions. Organizers aim to raise awareness regarding the criminalization of migrants and refugees in Greece.

Nikolas Farantouris has joined the PASOK political party. PASOK officials expressed anticipation regarding the new additions to the movement's personnel. Farandouris is a Member of the European Parliament and a leader within the Socialists and Democrats group in the European Parliament. PASOK officials are reportedly monitoring the impact of new members on the movement's dynamics. The move follows his departure from the Syriza parliamentary group. Sources indicate that Syriza had maintained distance from the former MEP for some time. The transition occurs amid ongoing political competition for leadership within the center-left. Former Prime Minister Nikola Farandouris has left the Syriza parliamentary group.

Two men were detained at Athens International Airport for allegedly stealing luggage directly from arrival belts. Authorities described the incident as a growing concern for airport security. No specific number of stolen items or suspect identities were provided.

Greek authorities may submit a proposal for a pre-trial investigation committee regarding former Minister of Agricultural Development Spyros Livanos and former Deputy Minister Fotini Arapantzi. The government is also attempting to counter declining approval ratings through agricultural aid and household financial packages. The probe focuses on crimes including corruption, abuse of power, fraud, and undue influence. The situation is expected to complicate the political landscape ahead of elections in approximately one year. The Greek Parliament has lifted the immunity of 13 members of the ruling New Democracy party. These lawmakers are potentially involved in a subsidy scandal. European prosecutors, including the team led by Kovshi, have already recorded some success in the investigation.

The entire Greek railway network, including suburban services, will be inactive from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM on May 1st to mark the Labor Day celebrations. Buses and trolleybuses will begin operating at 9:00 PM. Ships will remain docked at ports during the holiday period.

Athens will suspend metro, tram, and trolley bus services tomorrow from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM to accommodate May Day celebrations. Public transit workers in Athens will participate in strikes for the May Day holiday. Metro, electric railway, tram, trains, and suburban rail services will be mobilized tomorrow. Buses and trolleybuses will operate from early morning until 9:00 PM. Ships in the Elmans area will be docked starting from midnight tonight. Workers in the mass transit sector are participating in strikes today, leaving metro, electric railways, trams, suburban rail, and trolley services inactive from morning until evening. Protests are being organized by the General Confederation of Greek Workers and the Athens Labor Center at Klathmonos Square. Rail services for the metro, electric train, and tram in Athens will be suspended on May 1 to mark the Labor Day holiday.

Explosions were heard at the intersection of Andromachis and Pinelopis streets in Athens due to a fire. Emergency services managed to contain the flames within a short period. The blaze occurred in a dense, bushy area that required mobilization. The fire did not spread to adjacent areas, according to the report. More than 90 firefighters and four aircraft were deployed to the scene to manage the blaze in a dense area. Thirty-two firefighters using 13 vehicles and a specialized ladder truck are operating at the intersection of Andromachis and Pinelopi streets. Local municipal services are also assisting with the response. Witnesses reported hearing loud explosions coming from inside the shop as the fire spread rapidly. Firefighters were called to the scene around 3:00 PM. The blaze spread rapidly, destroying four buildings almost entirely and partially damaging another.