In the aftermath of the case of the 89-year-old man who opened fire at EIFA and Court of Appeal, Giannis Bougas spoke to ERTnews and acknowledged that there was a gap in security measures.
He said that fact is clear from the way the incident unfolded and cannot be disputed.
He stressed that the case in question immediately mobilized the relevant agencies and made it clear that any gaps identified would be filled by the Ministry of Justice.
The deputy minister explained that the responsibility for security at judicial mansions does not rest solely with the ministry. There is a special collective body, chaired by a senior officer of the Hellenic Police and involving both the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Citizen Protection.
The relevant court also participates in the same body, through the Administrative Council, which is aware of the particular operating conditions and proposes specific measures for the site.
He said the council will submit its recommendations to enhance safety for citizens, lawyers, judges and employees in all courts across the country.
Referring to staffing, he noted that the Judicial Police assist the National Police, but its staff – about 500 people – is insufficient for full coverage. Moreover, it stressed that it does not yet have the necessary experience to take on the full responsibility of guarding.
