Greek police authorities have unveiled a comprehensive new security plan dubbed “Promachos,” presented by To BHMA, targeting the growing risk of lone-wolf terrorist attacks. The 63-page classified document outlines a broad range of scenarios and tactics to identify and intercept potential attackers before violence erupts in public spaces. The document has been distributed primarily among rapid response units and is positioned as a vital tool in the proactive prevention of isolated but deadly threats to civilian life in Greece.

The name “Promachos” is rooted in Ancient Greek and Byzantine military tradition, referring to the frontline soldier in a phalanx formation. The program reflects both the symbolic and operational goal of standing guard in defense of public safety.

The initiative reflects heightened concern over the possibility of attacks linked to conflicts in the Middle East, as well as the threat of unpredictable retaliatory actions against both Greek citizens and foreign nationals in the country.

Presentation of the new Greek Police motorcycle DIAS Team, at the Markopoulos Training Center, in the presence of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Athens, Greece on December 30, 2019. / Παρουσίαση της Νέας Ομάδας Δίκυκλης Αστυνόμευσης (ΔΙ.ΑΣ.), της Ελληνικής Αστυνομίας, στο κέντρο εκπαίδευσης στο Μαρκόπουλο, παρουσία του πρωθυπουργού Κυριάκου Μητσοτάκη, Αθήνα, 30 Δεκεμβρίου 2019.

Early Detection Through Behavioral Indicators

At the heart of the “Promachos” plan is a system of 12 behavioral indicators designed to help officers and security personnel identify individuals who may be preparing for a violent act. These include:

• Nervous, repetitive movements such as adjusting clothing or searching through backpacks
• Efforts to avoid eye contact or to spot security staff
• Hesitation or scripted responses when questioned
• Keeping notes on police patrols
• Attempts to push through crowds aggressively
• Signs of physical rigidity or limited lower body mobility, possibly due to concealed explosives

Another red flag includes recently shaved facial hair, which may indicate ritualistic preparation in the case of ideologically motivated attacks.

Suicide Bombers: High-Risk Scenarios

The manual warns that suicide bombers could be carrying significant amounts of explosives. A single vest might contain up to 9 kilograms of material, while a backpack could carry 25 kilograms. In these situations, safe distances of 330 to 500 meters are recommended for civilians and responding officers alike.

Crucially, officers are instructed not to approach or physically search suspected bombers—even if the suspect appears injured, deceased, or willing to surrender. Such behavior could be a deliberate tactic to lure law enforcement into a trap.

Potential Attack Targets

The “Promachos” plan outlines high-risk locations that could be attractive targets, including:

• Festivals and parades
• Concerts and sporting events
• Airports and train stations
• Cafés, restaurants, and places of worship

The document also serves as a reference guide for identifying individuals with psychological issues who may launch sudden and unprovoked attacks using firearms, knives, or even vehicles.

One cited incident occurred on May 25, when a man drove his car into a bus stop in a northern Athens suburb (Chalandri), injuring three people.

Lone-Wolf Profiles and Radicalization Signs

The guide delves into psychological and social warning signs associated with potential attackers. These include:

Among the key behavioral indicators flagged in the “Promachos” plan are obsessive adherence to ideological or religious beliefs, the use of pseudonyms or sudden changes in name, abrupt withdrawal from school or training programs, a marked interest in martial arts, and visible signs of social isolation. These patterns may suggest radicalization or preparation for a lone-actor attack and are crucial for early detection.

The document also notes the influence of “gamification”, a psychological effect where real-life violence is influenced by video game dynamics and live-streamed attacks. This trend can encourage imitation and even admiration among like-minded individuals, as seen in high-profile incidents abroad.

Police officers patrol a commercial street, after the Greek government imposed a nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19 in Athens, Greece, November 7, 2020. REUTERS/Costas Baltas

Threats in Schools and Workplaces

For school settings, the plan identifies key risk factors such as:

• Easy access to firearms
• Lack of family supervision
• Exposure to bullying or social exclusion
• Desire for revenge or suicidal ideation

In workplaces, warning signs include:

• Resistance to organizational changes
• Extreme mood swings or emotional instability
• Sudden absenteeism or increased substance use
• Outbursts of unexplained anger

Vehicle-Based Attacks

One of the plan’s most technical sections deals with vehicle-based threats. Police are instructed to remain alert for vehicles that may be carrying explosives by observing specific warning signs. These include reinforced rear shock absorbers on vans or trucks—suggesting the transport of unusually heavy loads—vehicles parked for extended periods in central or sensitive areas, visible hanging wires inside the cabin, strange or chemical odors, and suspicious objects such as gas canisters. These details form part of the broader prevention strategy outlined in the “Promachos” plan.

A truck packed with explosives could carry up to 27,000 kilograms of material, prompting a recommended civilian evacuation radius of over two kilometers.

Hostage Scenarios: Guidelines for Officers

Presentation of the new Greek Police motorcycle DIAS Team, at the Markopoulos Training Center, in the presence of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Athens, Greece on December 30, 2019. / Παρουσίαση της Νέας Ομάδας Δίκυκλης Αστυνόμευσης (ΔΙ.ΑΣ.), της Ελληνικής Αστυνομίας, στο κέντρο εκπαίδευσης στο Μαρκόπουλο, παρουσία του πρωθυπουργού Κυριάκου Μητσοτάκη, Αθήνα, 30 Δεκεμβρίου 2019.

In the rare event that officers themselves become hostages, the plan provides survival guidelines; Hostages are advised to remain calm and maintain a low profile, avoiding any behavior that might draw attention to themselves. They should show respect toward the hostage-taker without escalating tensions, refrain from attempting to negotiate or resist, and wait patiently. It’s important to stay silent unless directly spoken to.