The mystery surrounding the disappearance of 39-year-old Vassilis Kalogirou from Larissa has captivated Greece as authorities, rescue teams, and volunteers intensify their search efforts.
Vassilis vanished on December 30 after leaving his parents' home for a walk, leaving behind his mobile phone. Despite an exhaustive search, no trace of him has been found.
Advanced Technology in the Hunt
Authorities are deploying cutting-edge technology to locate Vassilis. Drones, thermal cameras, and a robotic sonar system from the Hellenic Red Cross are scanning the Pinios River and its surroundings. Specialised rescue dogs and teams from EMAK (Hellenic Fire Brigade’s Special Disaster Unit) are meticulously combing the area, but challenges persist. The riverbed is littered with debris, including uprooted trees from storm Daniel, complicating the search.
Conflicting Leads and Open Scenarios
Investigators are exploring all possibilities. Vassilis, the son of a prosecutor involved in the high-profile Tempi case, was last seen on a local security camera walking alone near the Pinios River. However, his trail abruptly vanishes shortly afterward.
In recent days, a tip to the "Silver Alert" lifeline sparked hope. The caller claimed Vassilis was alive, confined within a monastery in Thessaly. However, after an intensive investigation of the site, the information proved false. "We are back to square one," said Gerasimos Kourouklis, head of the Silver Alert program.
Private investigator George Tsukalis, hired by the Kalogirou family, described the case as one of the most puzzling disappearances in his career. "We’ve scoured his mobile phone for clues, but it offered no leads," he stated, dismissing speculation that Vassilis might have been using a second device.
The disappearance has gripped Greece, with relatives, friends, and strangers anxiously awaiting news. "We pray for a resolution," said a family spokesperson. Meanwhile, authorities continue reviewing security footage, interviewing witnesses, and scouring the Pinios River.
The coming hours are seen as critical in what has become a race against time. As hope endures, Greece watches and waits, united in the hope that this harrowing mystery will reach a positive conclusion.