A large-scale police operation in Kissamos, Crete, culminated on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, with the arrest of 15 individuals linked to a notorious criminal organisation.
The group, primarily composed of members from a single extended family, faces charges of extortion, physical assault, property damage, weapons violations, and animal cruelty, according to the Hellenic Police (EL.AS).
The operation, led by the Chania Sub-Directorate for Combating and Investigating Crimes, targeted a criminal network that had been plaguing rural landowners and residents in the municipalities of Kissamos and Platanias. The syndicate, which authorities had partially dismantled months earlier, continued its illicit activities despite prior arrests and convictions. Among those detained are 10 core members of the organisation, including a 15-year-old minor, and five others connected through family ties. The suspects, aged 15 to 81, include 11 men and four women. A 23-year-old suspect remains at large but is included in the case file.
A History of Crime and Controversy
The criminal group’s activities came under renewed scrutiny following their release from pre-trial detention on March 20, 2025, after nine months in custody. This release, which sparked disagreement between the investigating judge and prosecutor due to the weight of incriminating evidence, allowed the group to resume their operations. Despite previous convictions, restrictive conditions, and parole terms, the syndicate persisted in targeting agricultural property owners, causing bodily harm, and damaging property.
During the investigation, authorities also solved a violent assault case from March 2, 2025, in the Kandanos-Selinou municipality, where a local was attacked with a sharp object.
Extensive Police Operation
The coordinated operation involved multiple units of the Chania Police Directorate and was executed with judicial oversight. Surprise searches of homes and livestock facilities used by the suspects uncovered a cache of weapons, eight vehicles linked to criminal activities, 10 mobile phones, and €15,050 in cash. Additionally, traffic violations were recorded, and fines were imposed by the Chania Traffic Police.
In a related development, the Chania Police’s Animal Protection Unit identified cases of animal neglect involving dogs, leading to €11,500 in administrative fines for violations of animal welfare regulations.
Ongoing Investigation
The 15 suspects are set to appear before the competent prosecutorial authority as the investigation continues. The Chania Sub-Directorate for Combating and Investigating Crimes is leading the pre-trial process, with authorities determined to fully dismantle the criminal network that has long troubled the region.
This operation marks a significant step in restoring security to Kissamos and surrounding areas, sending a strong message against organised crime in Crete.