Greek authorities have arrested seven individuals in connection with the violent attack that occurred during a career day event at the Athens Law School on April 30, which left one PhD student injured. The incident shocked the academic community and raised concerns over security on university campuses.

Among those arrested are individuals aged 19 to 31. Authorities say the 25-year-old suspect played a central role in the organization behind the attack. According to police reports, he was not only at the forefront of the group during the assault but also acted as a coordinator and lookout, conducting surveillance of the venue beforehand and helping others escape the scene. He is also accused of obstructing a police search at his residence.

Also arrested was a 29-year-old medical doctor who allegedly aided the 22-year-old suspect’s escape by car. The remaining suspects are believed to have formed the operational wing of the group, actively participating in the attack.

Three additional individuals, including a woman who allegedly supplied the group with masks to conceal their identities, have been identified in the case file but not yet apprehended.

Criminal Charges

The suspects face a wide range of charges, including (as applicable): participation in a criminal organization formed with the intent to commit felonies and misdemeanors, attempted manslaughter, grievous bodily harm, unlawful violence, verbal abuse, damage to public property, possession of weapons, and resisting arrest.

The criminal organization is believed to have deliberately targeted the event with the intent to disrupt public functions and inflict harm, according to law enforcement.

Evidence Seized

Police conducted searches at residences, vehicles, and other premises connected to the suspects. Items confiscated include:

  • Articles of clothing
  • 5 gas masks
  • Leaflets, flyers, stickers, and anarchist literature
  • 17 mobile phones, 5 desktop computers, 4 laptops, and 4 USB drives
  • 2 hard drives and 3 gaming consoles
  • 2 tablets and 3 SIM cards
  • A camera with memory card
  • 4 motorcycle helmets
  • Multiple balaclavas and neck warmers
  • A knife, shell casing, and metal cutter
  • Handwritten notes and numerous photocopies
  • 5 pairs of gloves
  • A multi-use bag containing various gloves, swim goggles, shin guard, 12 zip ties
  • 7 dry powder fire extinguishers

Criminal Backgrounds

Authorities revealed that several of the arrestees have prior records involving violence and unrest. Notably, the 19-year-old suspect was previously arrested in 2023 for assaulting police officers and setting fire to a patrol car in Monastiraki. The 22-year-old was implicated in the 2023 assault on former finance minister Yanis Varoufakis.

The investigation is ongoing, with police continuing efforts to locate and identify the remaining suspects.