Bomb Explosion Near Greek Railway Offices

A bomb exploded near the offices of Hellenic Train, Greece’s primary railway operator, in a busy central Athens district on Friday evening, authorities confirmed. No injuries were immediately reported.

The blast occurred as public frustration remains high over the 2023 Tempe rail disaster, Greece’s deadliest, which killed 57 people—mostly young students—when a passenger train and a freight train collided on the same track.

Warning Call Preceded Explosion

Local media reported that a newspaper and a news website received an anonymous call shortly before the explosion, warning that a bomb had been placed outside Hellenic Train’s offices and would detonate within 40 minutes.

In a statement, Hellenic Train confirmed the explosion happened “very close to its central offices,” causing limited damage but no injuries to employees or bystanders. The company said authorities acted swiftly after the warning and that it was cooperating fully with the investigation.

Police cordoned off the area along Syngrou Avenue, a major thoroughfare lined with bars and restaurants, keeping residents and tourists away. Officers at the scene reported that an explosive device had been placed in a bag near the building. Forensic teams in protective gear later collected evidence.

Ongoing Fallout from 2023 Rail Crash

The explosion comes amid heightened scrutiny of the government’s handling of the February 2023 Tempe disaster, which exposed severe safety failures in Greece’s rail system. Victims’ families have led mass protests demanding accountability, accusing authorities of negligence.

So far, only railway officials have faced criminal charges. Recent demonstrations marking the tragedy’s second anniversary have turned violent, with clashes between protesters and police.

Minister Condemns "Criminal Act"

Greek Transport Minister Christos Staikouras denounced the bombing as a “criminal act” that endangered lives during peak traffic hours. “Nothing justifies terrorism,” he stated, pledging a full judicial response.

Surveillance footage appeared to show the blast ripping through a backpack left near the offices. Local outlets Efsyn and Zougla, which received the warning call, reported the device was placed in a padlocked backpack on an unlicensed scooter. A bomb squad arrived too late to safely disarm it.

Hellenic Train reiterated its condemnation of violence, stating such acts “undermine progress.” While no group has claimed responsibility, the incident underscores lingering tensions over Greece’s railway safety crisis.