Piraeus, Greece – January 7, 2025 – Police have arrested three members of a gang of Roma minors who terrorized elderly residents in Piraeus during the holiday season.
The youths, aged 13, targeted vulnerable individuals living alone, using Christmas costumes as a disguise to gain entry to their homes. A fourth member of the gang, aged 17, remains at large.
The minors, two of whom have prior records for burglary and theft, were required to report regularly to the security department in Amfissa, where they resided. However, they failed to appear on January 1st, instead traveling to Piraeus to carry out their crime spree.
Between December 27th and January 2nd, the gang attacked at least eight elderly victims, ranging in age from 72 to 91. Posing as holiday well-wishers, they gained access to homes and then used violence and threats, including weapons and a plastic gun, to subdue their victims and steal cash and jewelry. In one particularly disturbing incident, an 82-year-old woman with dementia was thrown to the floor, gagged, and beaten before being robbed of 700 euros. She required hospitalization following the attack.
“The cruelty displayed by these young offenders is truly shocking,” said a police spokesperson. “They exploited the trust and vulnerability of elderly individuals during what should be a time of joy and celebration.”
The arrests came after a 91-year-old woman in Moschato reported being attacked in her home on December 30th. The perpetrators tore the screen of her balcony door, gagged her with clothing, and threatened her with scissors while demanding money.
The three arrested minors are currently in custody, facing multiple charges including robbery, assault, and potentially aggravated assault given the age and vulnerability of the victims. Police are continuing their investigation and are appealing to the public for any information regarding the whereabouts of the fourth suspect. They are also working to identify any additional victims who may be hesitant to come forward.