A major human trafficking ring operating in Athens has been dismantled by Greek authorities, leading to the arrest of 26 individuals involved in the exploitation of women for sexual purposes.
Among those arrested, nine were identified as core members of the criminal organisation, including its leaders, while 17 others were apprehended for offenses related to pimping and tampering with official seals.
Following the operation, 24 women were provided with assistance and protection, with the support of specialised NGOs, “OUR RESCUE” and “A21.”
Police Crack Down on Organised Trafficking Network
According to a statement from Greek law enforcement, the Sub-Directorate for Combating Trafficking in Persons and Goods, under the Directorate for Combating Organized Crime, led the investigation. The crackdown was carried out on February 14 and 15, 2025, with support from specialised police units and the aforementioned NGOs.
Authorities have charged the suspects with a range of serious offenses, including human trafficking, criminal organization, pimping, illegal detention, rape, kidnapping, theft of electricity, and violations of weapons and drug laws.
Investigators revealed that the criminal network had been active since at least January 2024, luring vulnerable foreign women to Greece under false pretenses before coercing them into prostitution. The group controlled multiple brothels in Athens, using foreign nationals as frontmen to lease properties and conceal their illicit activities.
Horrific Exploitation and Coercion
The organisation systematically transported, housed, and controlled foreign women, preventing them from escaping their captors. In one particularly harrowing case, a female victim was abducted and held captive in an Athens apartment for six days. During her captivity, she was drugged without her knowledge and sexually assaulted, while also being threatened into engaging in prostitution.
Members of the group also manipulated electricity meters in brothels to reduce recorded consumption, thereby increasing profits. Additionally, an accountant affiliated with the organization managed fraudulent lease agreements, disguising the true nature of the business.
Seized Evidence and Ongoing Investigation
During raids on brothels, residences, and an accounting office linked to the network, authorities seized:
- Two vehicles
- An air gun
- Money transfer documents
- Mobile phones, computers, cameras, and recording equipment
- Documents and handwritten notes related to property leases and brothel operations
- Broken utility meter seals
- €21,762 in cash
Authorities confirmed that among the 24 rescued women, 20 were identified as potential trafficking victims, while four were officially recognised as victims of human trafficking.
The arrested suspects have been brought before the relevant judicial authorities as investigations continue.
(Source: In.gr)