A bomb exploded outside the headquarters of Hellenic Train on Syngrou Avenue late Friday, following a warning call that gave police just 35 minutes to respond before detonation.
The explosive device, concealed inside a bag, detonated at 9:30 p.m., shortly after an unidentified caller alerted the newspaper Efimerida ton Syntakton and the website Zougla.gr, saying “This is not a joke.” Despite swift police action and road closures in the surrounding area, the device exploded, causing limited property damage but no injuries, authorities confirmed.
Bomb disposal units arrived quickly but were unable to carry out a controlled detonation before the blast occurred.
Police said a formal investigation is underway by the Counter-Terrorism Unit.
Greek Infrastructure and Transport Minister Christos Dimas condemned the incident, calling it “a criminal act that endangered lives in a densely populated part of Athens during peak hours.”
“Nothing justifies terrorism. No act of violence delivers justice,” Mr. Dimas said. “It is now up to law enforcement and the judiciary to act.”
Deputy Minister of Transport Konstantinos Kyranakis described the attack as “an act of terror targeting ordinary citizens and workers.”
“This type of violence has no place in a democratic society. We fully condemn it,” Mr. Kyranakis said.
Hellenic Train confirmed the incident and stated in a press release that no injuries were reported among staff or bystanders.
The company emphasized its cooperation with authorities and reiterated its commitment to employee safety.
“We categorically condemn all forms of violence and toxicity, which undermine progress,” the company said. “This kind of expression has no place in society.”
A local resident told iefimerida.gr the blast was heard “from a great distance,” describing the explosion as “very powerful” and causing widespread concern in the neighborhood.
“There is unrest in the area. We hope no one was hurt,” the resident added.
The explosion marks a rare but serious escalation in urban violence in Athens. While no group has claimed responsibility, officials say they are examining all possible motives.