Leak Exposes Identities of “Greek FBI” Officers, Raising Safety Concerns

Athens – A major security breach has compromised the identities of over 500 officers slated to join Greece’s newly formed elite anti-crime unit, sparking serious safety concerns. The leak, published on the specialist news website lawandorder.gr, revealed the names of approximately 550 officers being transferred to the agency, dubbed the “Greek FBI.”

“By publicizing the names of these people, there is even a risk to their lives,” stated police spokesperson Constantia Dimoglidou in an interview with Antenna TV. An internal investigation is underway to determine the source of the leak.

Law and order. gr has since acknowledged the error, stating the publication of the officers’ names was unintentional.

The new unit, comprised of roughly 1,000 officers, consolidates several specialized departments, including those focused on economic crimes, narcotics, human trafficking, hooliganism, and organized crime. This highly anticipated force was intended to combat the recent surge in organized crime and violence plaguing the country.

“Greek society needs it to fight against a form of violence… that rakes huge economic sums,” emphasized Police Minister Michalis Chrysochoidis earlier this month. The need for such a unit is underscored by the numerous mob-related killings that have taken place in recent years, some occurring in broad daylight.

This latest incident follows a string of embarrassments for Greek law enforcement. In 2022, dozens of Dinamo Zagreb hooligans travelled unhindered across Greece, culminating in a deadly clash with AEK Athens fans. Adding to the turmoil, the 2021 murder of prominent crime reporter Giorgos Karaivaz remains unsolved. Two suspects apprehended for the crime were acquitted in July due to insufficient evidence.

The leak of the “Greek FBI” officers’ identities raises serious questions about data security within the police force and casts a shadow over the launch of this new unit.