The tragedy in Trikala reached dramatic proportions after an explosion and a large fire broke out early Monday morning at the well-known Violanta biscuit factory. According to the Deputy Mayor of Civil Protection of Trikala, Giorgos Katavoutas, “we have found three bodies and are searching for the rest.”

The fire started just before 4:00 a.m. and destroyed a wing of the factory. A short time earlier, an explosion had occurred.

Five more workers and one firefighter were taken to the hospital. All injured are reportedly in stable condition.

Part of the facility has collapsed.

The explosion was so powerful that it was heard across the city and in nearby villages, where windows rattled. According to an employee at the scene, there were no gas tanks present.

Due to the fire, the authorities have closed Karditsi Street, with traffic being diverted through the village of Agia Kyriaki to allow rescue operations and ensure public and worker safety.

Forty firefighters with 15 vehicles are on site, along with the Special Disaster Unit (EMAK). EMAK units from Lamia have also arrived, and the Fire Crime Division (DAEE) has been ordered to intervene.