On the early morning of May 3, 2025, an explosion rocked the center of Thessaloniki, leaving the local community in shock and raising alarms about public safety. The blast, which occurred at a bank branch, resulted in the tragic death of a 38-year-old woman identified as Paraskevi Snizanna, a courier who was reportedly carrying a homemade explosive device.
The Hellenic Police (EL.AS.) have launched a comprehensive investigation to identify the perpetrators behind this devastating incident. Initial reports suggest that the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED), heightening concerns over rising crime rates and the deteriorating state of public safety in the area.
In a bid to gather more information, authorities have released the identities and photographs of two individuals linked to the explosion. The first is Paraskevi Snizanna, born on November 21, 1987, in Georgia, who lost her life in the incident. The second individual is Konstantinos Michailitsianos, born on August 17, 1989, in Attica, who is believed to have rented the apartment where the explosive device was stored.
According to the Thessaloniki Public Prosecutor's Office, this disclosure aims to assist in the ongoing investigation by encouraging witnesses to come forward and potentially identify additional accomplices or other individuals involved in the criminal activity. Citizens are urged to contact the authorities with any relevant information, with assurances that anonymity will be preserved.
Authorities are particularly interested in the whereabouts of Michailitsianos, who is described as a key figure in the case. Known colloquially as "petalouda" (meaning butterfly), he allegedly rented the apartment in the Ladadika district just days before the explosion. Following the blast, he reportedly fled to Athens.
In the apartment, investigators discovered significant quantities of explosives, including high-powered pentaerythritol (PETN) and a small amount of TNT, totaling around one kilogram. Additionally, they found a five-meter detonating cord and common firecrackers. A note with the address of the apartment was also found in Snizanna's possession, leading police to the scene rapidly.
The explosion has triggered widespread concern regarding public safety in Thessaloniki. Local residents are anxious about the increase in criminal activities and the potential consequences of such homemade explosive devices being used in populated areas. The police have ramped up efforts to monitor the situation and are awaiting further developments and announcements.
As the investigation continues, authorities emphasize that all leads are being pursued vigorously. Each piece of new information could shed light on not only the individuals responsible for this explosion but also on other potential criminal activities in the region.
The police have opened lines of communication for the public to report any useful information. Citizens can reach out to the Department for the Suppression of Violent Crime at the following numbers: 2310-388328, 2310-388324, and 2310-388318. The police have assured that all communications will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
This incident has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of current security measures in urban areas, and local authorities are under pressure to enhance public safety protocols. As investigations unfold, the community watches closely, hoping for answers and justice for the victim.
In the wake of this tragedy, the local community is left grappling with the implications of such violence. The loss of Snizanna has not only affected her family and friends but has also sent ripples of fear throughout Thessaloniki. Residents are calling for increased vigilance and stronger measures to ensure their safety.
As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on uncovering the full extent of the network behind the explosion. With authorities appealing for public assistance, there is a collective hope that justice will be served, and that measures will be put in place to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
The coming weeks will be crucial as police continue their inquiries, and the community awaits further information on the case. The memory of the tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by urban areas in maintaining public safety amidst rising crime rates.
