At least three killed in Violanta food factory fire

At least three people have died and two others are still missing after a fire broke out at a food factory near the central Greek city of Trikala, authorities said.

According to local media reports, the fire started early on Monday at the Violanta biscuit factory, where 13 workers were employed. While eight people managed to escape, firefighters later removed three bodies from the building.

Drone footage shows thick smoke rising from the fire.

It was reported that a strong explosion was heard before the explosion, and the investigation into the cause of the fire continues.

Health minister Adonis Georgiadis earlier told the Skai news agency that six workers and one firefighter were hospitalized, adding that they were “in good health, mainly suffering from respiratory problems.”

The Greek fire service said 40 firefighters and 13 fire trucks were sent to fight the fire.