Citizens’ Protection Minister states that 7 suspected jihadists have been arrested in Greece since 2017

Citizens’ Protection Minister, Michalis Chrysochoidis told Parliament on Tuesday that seven suspected jihadists have been arrested in Greece since 2017.

“The Greek authorities are in a constant state of vigilance for the potential location of suspected extremist elements, for analysing and assessing any information that may come their way regarding extremist Islamist activities and for carrying out extensive checks on any persons coming under their purview,” he said.

In response to a question tabled by the ultra-nationalist Greek Solution (Elliniki Lysi) party, Chrysochoidis presented documents showing that from 2017 until August 14 this year, seven foreign nationals had been apprehended. The suspects were wanted on European or international arrest warrants for suspected involvement in jihadist activities.

The minister added that police officers receive special training for spotting individuals who may be showing signs of radicalisation, “which may potentially lead to [acts of] violent extremism and terrorism.”