In a major crackdown, the Hellenic Police have dismantled a notorious criminal organisation involved in extortion, arson, violence, and drug trafficking across various areas of Attica.
The organisation, with deep roots in fan violence, operated a wide range of illegal activities that terrorised local communities.
Criminal Activities Uncovered
According to statements released by the Greek Police, the organisation provided "protection" services to businesses, extorting weekly or monthly payments from owners under threat of violence. They also offered security services as bodyguards, often using threats and force to resolve disputes in favour of their clients.
The group's activities included guarding events, providing security for employees, controlling access to venues, and acting as intermediaries in disputes. Their criminal portfolio extended to fan violence, participating in clashes outside football stadiums, as seen in the recent incident on Alexandra Avenue.
Police Operation and Arrests
A coordinated police operation on the morning of July 14, 2024, led to the arrest of 17 individuals, three of whom were already incarcerated. The case file implicates 32 additional suspects, who remain at large due to the lack of immediate evidence.
The investigation by the Extortion Department has so far linked the organisation to 78 cases of shop extortion, five instances of arson, and numerous other criminal activities. During the raids, authorities seized an extensive arsenal of weapons, drugs, and large sums of money.
Weapons and Contraband Seized
The following items were confiscated during searches of homes, vehicles, and on suspects:
- Firearms: 2 rifles, 8 pistols, 2 revolvers, 471 firearm cartridges, 91 flashbangs, 11 grenades, and various other weapons.
- Drugs: 800 grams of cocaine, 2,218 grams of raw cannabis, multiple improvised packages of cannabis, and other drug paraphernalia.
- Other Items: 2 laptops, 36 mobile phones, bulletproof vests, disguises, and 248,090 euros in cash.
Major Incidents Linked to the Group
The organisation has been implicated in several high-profile criminal incidents:
- Explosions and Arsons: Grenade attack on an Athens apartment building (05/09/2023), arson attacks on barbecue shops in Maroussi and Nea Ionia (09/09/2023 and 13/09/2023), canteen fire in Ano Liosia (16/11/2023), truck fire in Nea Ionia (09/03/2024), and more.
- Violence: Physical assaults on shop patrons in Nea Smyrni (18/05/2024), resulting in severe injuries.
-Explosions: Improvised explosive device attacks on a restaurant in Artemida (04/06/2024) and a petrol station in Piraeus (08/03/2024).
Background and Continuing Investigation
Most members of the organisation have previous criminal records, including charges for criminal organisation, drug offences, extortion, theft, and forgery. The arrested individuals have been brought before the prosecuting authorities, and investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the organisation's criminal activities.
The Hellenic Police remain committed to eradicating such criminal enterprises and ensuring the safety and security of the community.
(Source: Efsyn)