The trial of 21 people accused of the arson attack against the Hellas Gold goldmine site on February 2013 in Skouries, Chalkidiki has commenced with over 70 witnesses testifying in the case.
The 21 suspects on trial are residents of Ierissos and Megali Panagia in the Chalkidiki peninsula.
The first witnesses called to the stand were security personnel at the site, who said that a group of 40-50 people attacked them wearing masks and military gear. The group attacked the security personnel with guns, firebombs and flares and forced some to flee to the nearby forest, the guards said.
The charges filed against the 21 include formation of a criminal ring, attempted murder, explosions, and robbery. Four of the defendants had been detained but later released under conditions.