Greek authorities are continuing to investigate the death of a 29-year-old coast guard officer whose body was found hanged on Good Friday at a remote chapel on the island of Lesbos, as new evidence and conflicting claims raise questions about the circumstances surrounding his death.
The officer, whose name has not been officially released, was assigned to a K9 unit within the country’s narcotics division.
He was on medical leave at the time of his death and had reportedly expressed concerns about his safety due to his involvement in anti-drug operations.
The case has drawn national attention, particularly after the officer’s shoes and mobile phone were discovered 87 kilometers (54 miles) from where his body was found. Authorities are now examining how the items could have ended up so far away.
Security footage also reportedly shows the officer’s car traveling in a convoy with other vehicles shortly before his death. Investigators are working to determine whether he was alone or accompanied at that time.
The officer’s family has filed a formal complaint demanding a full forensic investigation, alleging that no proper autopsy was conducted to rule out foul play. A private forensic expert has been appointed by the family to review the case independently.
In a further development, the family filed a lawsuit Wednesday against a serving officer in the Lesbos police department. This officer allegedly posted a public accusation suggesting the deceased was involved in drug trafficking networks, a claim the family vehemently denies as defamatory.
The funeral, initially scheduled for Easter Monday, has been postponed indefinitely.
Greek police have confirmed that the investigation remains open, with all possibilities, including homicide, still under consideration.
The case has sparked concern across the political spectrum, with lawmakers from Syriza and Pasok calling for full transparency and a thorough inquiry into the death of the young officer, who had a frontline role in drug enforcement.
Authorities have not yet released an official cause of death.