Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas described the disappearance of explosives from the Kalo Chorio training field as a serious incident. Speaking on the programme “Mesimeri kai Kati”, he confirmed that authorities are conducting full-scale investigations to locate the missing explosives and hold responsible parties accountable.
Ongoing investigations
Palmas emphasised that the authorities continue searching for the explosives. “We are still investigating. This is a serious incident, and we are not underestimating it. I also express my dissatisfaction regarding this development,” he said.
He added that military leadership acted immediately. “From the first moment, the Chief of National Guard ordered an investigation. I met today with the Chief and the responsible brigadier overseeing the inquiry. There are no new updates,” he stated.
Accountability measures
The Minister clarified that while he generally trusts National Guard personnel, he will assign responsibility where it arises. “I speak highly of the National Guard and its members, but I will criticise specific behaviours of those responsible for this training if necessary,” he said.
Timeline and circumstances
Palmas explained that investigators focus on the exact moment the explosives went missing during the training of the 20th Engineer Company in Kornos. “We are examining the interval between detonations when the material disappeared, and whether the area received proper supervision,” he said.
Process and material details
The Defence Minister acknowledged that the inquiry will take time. “The responsible brigadier and Chief explained that this process requires time. My priority is to resolve the case and determine responsibility,” he said.
Regarding the explosives’ nature, Palmas said they do not consist of pure TNT. “It is a mixture that cannot detonate without a detonator. That is somewhat positive, unless the individuals handling it act unlawfully, such as scrap metal collectors entering the training areas,” he added. Palmas also noted that security cannot guard the fields 24/7, making such incidents possible.
Also read: National Guard alert as TNT quantity “missing”
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