Alpha News

Owner of "Violanda" Re-arrested, Charges Upgraded

Published February 14, 2026, 17:23

The owner of the "Violanda" biscuit factory has been re-arrested, and the charges have been upgraded to manslaughter with possible intent, from manslaughter due to negligence. The upgrade is due to new evidence that emerged from investigations by the Fire Crime Investigation Directorate (DAEE), which indicates that the arrested individuals were aware of the risks that led to the death of the five workers. Among the serious findings are the months-long gas leak, the illegal distance between the tanks, the unsuitable infrastructure and the concealment of a building from the technical study. The initial charges were of a misdemeanor nature, but the new investigation revealed evidence justifying the more serious charges.