The son-in-law of the 39-year-old victim who lost his life in the double murder in Vorizia was taken to the Heraklion Police Directorate, while in the past 24 hours, 15 area residents were brought in for questioning and subsequently released.
Read: Vorizia: Detained relatives of 39-year-old testify to investigator about bomb
Meanwhile, a special forces unit is “combing” the wider area around the village, searching for the weapons used in the massacre. The police investigation is developing in two directions: on one hand, investigating the circumstances of the bloody clash that cost two people their lives and, on the other, searching for those allegedly responsible for ordering the construction and placement of the bomb.
As part of the investigation, a man considered a central figure in one of the families was transferred today from Nea Alikarnassos prison, where he has been held since September along with his son and cousin—who was the victim’s brother. He testified before the regular investigator and the Heraklion prosecutor.
The reason for his transfer was an improvised knife found in his cell last Wednesday during a raid and search by special forces officers. This search yielded other findings: two mobile phones and chargers. According to ERT News sources, the man denied any involvement, while police are very close to locating the weapons used in the deadly clash in Vorizia and identifying who is connected to the bomb.
Vorizia: Police blockades at village entrance and exit
Police forces in Vorizia have been reinforced, with blockades at the village entrance and exit. No one can enter the village without being checked—both their vehicle and themselves—and providing identification documents.
Forces are also stationed at the houses of both families to prevent any clashes.
A major “challenge” is expected to be the reopening of schools (elementary and kindergarten) on Monday (10/11), while child psychologists and school counselors will be present in the village and remain for one week to ensure children’s return to school activities proceeds smoothly.
Investigation focuses on testimonies and mobile phones
The focus is on witness testimonies and mobile phones. “There are several witness testimonies helping us clarify the situation, though we don’t know exactly each person’s role. This hasn’t been clarified, but we believe now, during the ongoing investigative process by the competent investigator, each person’s role will be clarified,” said Greek Police Press Representative Konstantia Dimogllidou, speaking to ERT News.
She also mentioned that “50 officers have already arrived on the island” to reinforce special units operating on issues of illegal weapons possession, livestock theft and other related crimes. Additionally, “100 more officers are reinforcing the Organized Crime Unit, which is now becoming a sub-directorate with a special department for Special Crimes.”
Four weapons have been located so far, while, as she said, “it’s clear that many more were used.” Investigations continue in cooperation with Criminology Laboratories to complete ballistic examinations and determine specific weapons’ involvement.
Regarding those involved in the case, Ms. Dimogllidou noted that “no one has accepted illegal weapons possession or use so far,” while investigative procedures continue to clarify each person’s role.