Feb 10 • 17:32 UTC 🇬🇷 Greece To Vima

Russian former mayor behind arson in Chania? The plan and the arrests

Greek authorities are investigating a serious arson case allegedly involving a former Russian mayor who paid three Greeks to set fire to a shop as a warning to his ex-wife.

Greek authorities in Chania are currently investigating a grave arson incident that allegedly involves a former Russian mayor as the moral instigator. The 78-year-old suspect is accused of paying three Greeks to ignite a shop in Almirida, framed as a 'warning message' directed at his ex-wife. He denies the accusations; however, law enforcement considers him the mastermind behind the arson that took place on January 19, resulting in the complete destruction of the business with damages estimated at around 150,000 euros.

Further investigation revealed that the targeted shop did not belong to the mayor's ex-wife but rather to a woman unrelated to the former couple. The shop owner expressed her disbelief, noting that the only connection was that her architectural office was situated next to a business linked to the accused's former partner. This significant detail represents a case of mistaken identity, amplifying the tragedy of the incident for the shop owner, who has had her life and professional activities severely disrupted.

The case raises serious questions about personal disputes escalating into criminal actions, as well as the implications for community safety. The arrest of the three accomplices and the ongoing inquiry into the former mayor's involvement underscores the urgent need for law enforcement to address how personal vendettas can impact the wider community, leading to reckless endangerment and property destruction. This incident not only highlights the potential for violence stemming from domestic disputes but also points to a troubling use of resources and networks within the community to carry out such acts.

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