Five people were injured on Tuesday in two separate shooting incidents in central Athens, with authorities confirming the arrest of an 89-year-old man suspected of carrying out the attacks.
The first occurred at a social security office operated by EFKA, where the suspect allegedly entered the building and went to the fourth floor, public broadcaster ERT reported.
He reportedly fired a shotgun, injuring an employee participating in a state employment programme.
The victim suffered minor leg injuries and was taken to the hospital, with his condition described as non-life-threatening.
Shortly afterward, the suspect is believed to have travelled by taxi to the Athens Court of Appeal in Loukareos, where he reached the fourth floor and opened fire, injuring four additional victims.
Motive behind the attack unclear
All victims were reported to have sustained minor injuries.
Police said the suspect left the weapon at the scene of the second shooting before fleeing.
Witnesses said that as the suspect exited the building after the shootings, he stopped at the gate and threw two or three envelopes on the ground, claiming they contained the reason for his actions.
Authorities have not disclosed the contents of the envelopes, though they are believed to be linked to the motive behind the attack.
The suspect initially managed to flee unnoticed, prompting a large-scale police operation.
No resistance during arrest
He was later located and arrested in the city of Patras.
He had travelled there by taxi and arrived at a central hotel near the old bus station, requesting a room for the night and telling staff he planned to travel to Italy the following day, according to reports.
Police quickly arrived, however, and arrested the suspect without resistance.
The suspect is being held at the Achaia Police Headquarters and is expected to be transferred to Athens to appear before a prosecutor and investigating judge.
Authorities are also examining his background, including reports that he had previously been hospitalised at a psychiatric facility.
