**Greek Politician's Mother Dies Following Arson Attack**
In a tragic incident in Thessaloniki, Greece, Vagia Nestora, the 72-year-old mother of Afroditi Nestora, a candidate from the ruling New Democracy party, has succumbed to injuries sustained during a suspected arson attack. The attack is part of a series of violent incidents targeting officials of the New Democracy party.
Vagia Nestora was critically injured in an explosion and subsequent fire at the apartment building where her daughter resides. Hospital officials reported that she suffered extensive burns covering approximately 80% of her body, leading to multiple organ failure. Despite receiving intensive medical care, she passed away shortly after being admitted to the hospital.
The arson attack occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, with three separate incidents involving petrol bombs and improvised incendiary devices reported within a short span of time. The first explosion was recorded at 04:18, followed by two more at 04:23 and 04:35. The blasts caused significant damage, destroying two cars and damaging several motorcycles, in addition to the apartment building.
Afroditi Nestora, who was also injured in the attack, suffered burns and smoke inhalation and remains hospitalized. Her father, who has pre-existing health conditions, along with two other residents, were admitted for treatment due to breathing difficulties caused by the smoke.
Greece's Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited the hospital following the attacks and condemned the violence, stating, "Violence has no place in an organised society." He expressed his determination to ensure that those responsible for the attacks would be identified and brought to justice. Before Vagia Nestora's death, he characterized the perpetrators as "nothing more than criminals" who would be treated accordingly.
The incidents have drawn the attention of Greece's Counter-Terrorism Service, which is now leading the investigation. Authorities are examining whether the attacks were coordinated and are analyzing CCTV footage from the area. As of now, no arrests have been made, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.
In addition to the Nestora family, the other attacks targeted the homes of Zisis Ioakeimovits, the chairman of New Democracy's Thessaloniki administrative committee, and former New Democracy MP Savvas Anastasiadis. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries in these two separate incidents.
The series of attacks has raised concerns about the safety of political figures in Greece, as well as the potential for escalating violence in the political landscape. The government has reiterated its commitment to addressing such threats and ensuring the safety of its officials and citizens.
As the investigation continues, the community and political leaders are left grappling with the implications of this violence, which has shocked many in the region.