One of the largest cases of phone fraud and sophisticated theft in the country was dismantled by the Athens Subdivision for Crime Investigation and Detection, breaking up a multi-member criminal organization that operated nationwide since February 2023. In a coordinated operation involving approximately 400 police officers in Attica and Corinth, 45 people were arrested – 44 organization members, including the ringleaders. The case file includes a total of 141 individuals.
parapolitika.gr obtained a series of videos showing the suspects’ activities, as well as footage from Greek Police drones that were utilized during the major operation to locate members and dismantle the organization.
The organization had its “headquarters – call center” in a settlement in Zeugolatió Corinth and secondary operational centers in Agia Varvara, Ano Liosia, Zefyri and other areas, exploiting local characteristics for cover and escape. It maintained a structured hierarchy with directors, assistants, callers, recruiters of banking information, and an extensive network of “money mules” who provided cards, e-banking codes and phone numbers for payment.
How the criminal organization operated
Their operation was highly organized and adapted to current conditions, exploiting subsidies, tax refunds and government announcements. With 40 daily callers and at least 150 operational mobile phones, members presented themselves as government employees, accountants, technicians, and even police officers, extracting money or leading victims –mainly elderly people– to hand over cash and valuables. They also operated as “online vehicle sellers” with fake advertisements.
So far, 1,089 fraud cases have been solved, while the actual number of incidents is estimated to be much higher. The illegal profit exceeds 7.6 million euros. Many victims suffered severe psychological pressure, panic attacks, ischemic episodes and changes to their daily lives due to fear.
In 73 searches across 8 settlements and other locations, authorities found among other items: 38,564 euros, foreign currency, 23 computers, 116 mobile phones, a hydroponic cannabis laboratory, weapons, knives, clubs, brass knuckles, electric shock device, cameras, stamps, documents, 10 cars and 4 motorcycles.
