Authorities in Thessaloniki have ordered the involuntary psychiatric hospitalisation of a 41-year-old Greek-British man after a tense incident outside the city's courthouse on Wednesday, December 18.
The man, who was found in possession of an improvised explosive device, allegedly threatened to detonate it, shouting, "I'll blow you up, bring the minister!"
The explosive device, described by police as makeshift and composed of firecrackers, wiring, and batteries, was seized after officers subdued the man despite his fierce resistance.
Following his arrest, the suspect faced charges including manufacturing and possessing explosives in a public space, making serial threats, resisting law enforcement, and violating weapons laws, as he was found with a replica pistol. The case was promptly handed over to the Hellenic Police’s Anti-Terrorist Service.
During his court appearance before the 2nd regular investigator, the man reportedly made incoherent and unintelligible statements, prompting the decision to transfer him to Thessaloniki’s Psychiatric Hospital for further evaluation. In addition to his hospitalisation, he has been placed under restrictive conditions, including mandatory appearances at a local police station and a prohibition on leaving the country.
Background of the Incident
Preliminary investigations revealed that the 41-year-old, an electrician by profession, resides permanently in the United Kingdom. He reportedly entered Greece via North Macedonia to meet a friend in Thessaloniki, though the meeting never occurred. He had planned to subsequently visit his Greek mother in Chania, Crete.
The shocking nature of the incident and the accused’s behavior has sparked significant public concern, though authorities have not linked the man’s actions to any organised terrorist activity.