On 14 May, Kouvelioti was reporting on a construction site in Lagonisi, Attica region in the Southern part of Greece - where welding was being done next to dry grass before a man identified as the company’s operator hit the journalist. In an interview with local media, she described an unexpected attack she faced after inquiring about the authorisation for the work being done at the site.

The journalist started her investigation on the construction site after receiving many complaints from the local communities for several months. According to the information she received, the oxygen welding in Lagonisi was being done in a public area, in the middle of nature of southeastern Attica region, which increases the high risk of fire. 

The man, the company’s operator, turned her hand back, causing swelling in the collarbone and hematoma as well as injuries to her neck. Kouvelioti filed a lawsuit and the police arrested the attacker. 

Before this incident, Kouvelioti had suffered attacks on two of her previous investigations: one in relation to a murder case in Messolonghi in January 2024 and the other related to the brutal animal abuse of a husky dog in the winter resort of Arachova in 2023.

The case of Kouvelioti doesn't stand alone. A number of press freedom violations have been reported recently, including government interference in the media, abusive lawsuits against journalists and activists, and an overall unsafe working environment for journalists, including two unsolved murders of journalists (Sokratis Giolias and Giorgos Karaivaz). 

The Board of Directors of JUADN expressed their concern for Kouveliotis following the attack. “We denounce the violence, brutality, and provocative behaviour, along with the repeated targeting of journalists. This assault aims to discredit the journalistic profession and diminish its important role in keeping the public informed. The attempts to intimidate and silence the media through violence will not succeed." 

IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger said: “Journalists play an important role in informing the public and holding those in power accountable. It is crucial that they are protected while carrying out their duties, especially when reporting on issues that could potentially endanger lives or damage the environment. The recent attack on journalists in Greece highlights the need for authorities to ensure a safe working environment for journalists.”