Former citizens protection minister Giannis Panousis told Proto Thema newspaper that his life had been threatened by politicians who had connections with terrorists. “I have provided the necessary evidence regarding their identity to a notary in case something happens to me,” he said.

While in office, Panousis dealt with the police and the country’s intelligence services. His revelations concerning threats were particularly striking when bearing in mind that the masterminds of a plot against him were not just criminals and terrorists but also government officials serving in Greece’s last cabinet.

He made it clear to Proto Thema that Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras was fully aware of the bribes going on between politicians and police officers.

Following his interview, the government appeared annoyed by the allegations. Government sources suggested that the former minister submit his allegations to the Greek justice system rather than to the media. Following the government’s challenge, Panousis appears ready to do just that and is meeting with the prosecutor on Monday, accompanied by Greek Law Association President Vasilis Alexandris. It is expected that Panousis will name the people who threatened him following the political tempest that has arisen following his interview.

“I am glad that the prime minister would like to see the names of those involved in the newspapers, and they will undoubtedly be leaked, but not by my responsibility,” said Panousis in response to the government’s reaction to his allegations. “This could create an even larger political problem. That is something I wanted to avoid. But it may also be ‘convenient’ to clear the (political) landscape.”

The opposition parties of Greek Parliament were critical of the government’s stand concerning the allegations made by the former minister and asked the government to take a stand on the matter. The conservative main opposition New Democracy party, along with socialist PASOK, centrist Potami (River) and the Union of Centrists called on justice to shed light on the matter.