Three individuals, aged 24, 37, and 45, were arrested in a police operation targeting the smuggling of a large quantity of cannabis into Greece through Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”. The case began to unravel when officers from the Airport Narcotics Division, following extensive investigations, cross-referencing of data, and criminal profiling, zeroed in on a 37-year-old man arriving in Athens by air from abroad.
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The 18kg of SKUNK and the suitcase handoff
During the inspection, officers discovered that the 37-year-old was carrying two packages containing a total of 18 kilograms of raw hydroponic cannabis (SKUNK). According to police, the large quantity of drugs was intended to be handed over and subsequently distributed by a 45-year-old and a 24-year-old.
The 37-year-old attempted to hand the suitcase — which contained the cannabis — to the 45-year-old, who is alleged to have been acting on behalf of the 24-year-old as well. The handoff, however, never took place, as police intervened and proceeded with the arrests.
Cannabis grow lab discovered inside a home
The investigation did not stop at the airport. Officers subsequently searched the residence of the 45-year-old, where the 24-year-old was also located and arrested.
Inside the property, police uncovered a cannabis cultivation laboratory, along with an additional 60 grams of SKUNK. Equipment used for growing cannabis plants was seized, including an aluminum frame, a temperature gauge, and three plastic containers of fertilizer. Four cannabis plants standing between 50 and 70 centimeters tall were also found on the premises.
Full list of seized items
Across the entire operation, the following items were confiscated: 18 kilograms and 60 grams of raw hydroponic cannabis (SKUNK), four cannabis plants, two precision scales, three mobile phones, a stiletto-type knife, €240 in cash, the suitcase, and the full grow lab equipment.
It is worth noting that one of the three suspects has previously come to the attention of authorities for similar and other offences.
The three individuals have been charged — each according to their alleged role — with importing cannabis into Greek territory by air, drug trafficking, cannabis cultivation, and violations of weapons legislation.
All three were brought before the competent prosecutorial authority following the completion of the case file against them.
