Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-001585/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Emmanouil Fragkos (ECR)
With regard to the crime that took place at Tempi (on 28 February 2023), the government’s narrative refers to the fatalities as a result of the crash. Investigations have shown that the hydrocarbons benzene, toluene and xylene, weighing 3.8-5.4 tonnes, were to blame for the fatal fireball. It was found that passengers who survived the crash were burnt to death, with the fire starting 1.5-3 minutes after the crash. It is estimated that 8.9-12.6 tonnes of aromatic hydrocarbons spilled onto the soil, with their evaporation creating dangerous conditions for those who later ventured onto the site. The fact that the smuggled cargo is to blame for the fireball, and thus for most of the deaths, is being covered up by the government – presumably at the request of the smugglers.
The government’s manipulation of justice clearly results in the failure to investigate the identity of the smuggler and his connection to the government. Since 2014, the EU has provided almost EUR 700 million in funding towards 16 transport projects in Greece, and the crime at Tempi presents an – indirect – insult to it.
In light of the above, can the Commission answer the following:
- 1.Could it request that a European agency, such as the European Railway Agency (ERA), carry out an independent investigation of the accident?
- 2.Is there a possibility for EU action to ensure that the Greek Government takes all the necessary measures to hold those responsible to account?
- 3.Has the decision been taken to monitor Greece more closely with regard to the investigation of the case and the implementation of security measures following the crime at Tempi?
Submitted: 21.4.2025