Police in Greece arrested two people on Tuesday after discovering a large cache of weapons in their home.
A 54-year-old man and a 57-year-old woman – who were arrested – face charges of possession of weapons and explosives.
Police who searched their home in the northern Greek town of Florina on Monday seized 29 weapons, 95 ammunition magazines, 11 hand grenades, five mortar bombs, more than 72 kilograms (158 pounds) of gunpowder, more than 35,000 rifle rounds of various calibres and a homemade bomb, authorities said.
Among the weapons were 14 assault rifles, three submachine guns, 11 pistols and one shotgun. Police also seized 414 kilograms (910 pounds) of empty ammunition, a telescopic sight, three detonators, a bulletproof vest and various flares.
Such seizures are unusual for Greece. Authorities are investigating how the couple acquired the military equipment and whether they were involved in any crimes, police said.
The couple reportedly owns a transport company operating also outside Greece.
The Florina Security Department, which is conducting the relevant preliminary investigation, is examining both the exact way and time of procurement of the weaponry, as well as the possible participation of the above arrested persons in criminal acts, local media reported. The Anti-Terrorism and State Security Department of Thessaloniki are assisting in the investigation.
Some media reported that the couple ran or was affiliated with a shooting range in the area and were obsessed with weapons.
