2 arrested in Corfu synagogue arson case

Less than 48 hours after unknown assailants break into Corfu synagogue, burn Torahs and Judaica, Greek security forces arrest two suspects and are examining terror connections as security around Israelis increased

Greek Police said Wednesday that they have arrested two suspects in the Corfu synagogue arson attack case. According to suspicions, the two are also involved in vandalizing the Jewish community's offices on the Island.

Meanwhile, the police have decided to reinforce security around Israelis arriving in the country on cruises, due to the recent travel advisory published by the Counter Terrorism Bureau

The fire took place at the Corfu synagogue on the eve of the Passover holiday. Unknown assailants broke into the synagogue in the old town of the island's capital after 3 am by forcing open a back door into the 19th century building, a senior officer said. They made a pile of books and documents in front of the rabbi's platform, or bimah, on the synagogue's first floor and set them on fire.

Greek security forces launched a search for those responsible and are now examining the connection between the two arrested suspects and terror groups. The search for additional suspects who most likely entered Greece recently continues.

Travel warning

The security department at the Transportation Ministry noted that heightened security was also in evidence around Israeli groups arriving in Cyprus via flights and cruises. Cypriot security forces, who are receiving a great deal of praise in Israel, have also arrested a number of suspected terrorists.

Just ten days ago the Counter Terrorism Bureau published a travel warning stating that not only Sinai and Arab countries were dangerous destinations – adding Turkey and Greece to the list.

In the announcement published ahead of the Passover holiday the bureau said that the warning was focused on Mediterranean Basin countries as well as certain Far East destinations.