Problematic propane pipes in the factory’s basement

Officers from the Fire Safety and Explosives Division (DAEE) inspected the factory. Reports indicated that propane pipes in the basement showed signs of perforation.

The pipes connected the factory’s tanks to the production unit, with fire brigade teams digging to locate the corroded pipes that transported the propane.

Meanwhile, there are employee testimonies stating that gas had been smelled in the factory for days. Complaints had been made to the responsible parties, but no action was taken, which ultimately led to the tragedy. It is recalled that the mother of Eleni Katsarou, one of the workers who lost her life, told protothema.gr: “For over a month, we kept telling them there was a smell of propane gas, but no one paid any attention.”

The owner and two others at the Prosecutor’s Office

Yesterday, the company owner, the safety technician, and the shift technician were arrested and are being taken to the competent prosecutor’s office in Trikala.

A case is being filed against them for acts and omissions related to charges, including negligent homicide, multiple serious bodily injuries, arson, and explosion. The case will also include the fire safety inspection conducted by the Fire Department on the tanks and factory premises.

Work crews continue to clean the burnt factory facilities, while the municipality of Trikala has declared a three-day municipal mourning period.

The Fire Brigade and specifically the officers of the Arson Investigation Department are expected to make announcements on the findings of the investigations into the explosion and fire at the “Violanda” biscuit factory in Trikala, which resulted in the death of 5 workers.

According to reports, the evidence available to the Fire Brigade, based on investigations, indicates that there was a leakage of propane from a pipe that had been underground, and the site of the leak has been identified.

The ensuing fire was reportedly caused by a spark in the water pump.