ATHENS, April 9 – A surveillance operation targeting an Interpol-wanted Turkish fugitive led Greek police to dismantle a major drug distribution network and seize nearly 180 kilograms of cannabis in a series of coordinated raids across Athens. Four individuals have been arrested and brought before a public prosecutor on felony charges.
International Cooperation Uncovers Drug Ring
International cooperation officers with the Hellenic Police had been tracking a 39-year-old Turkish national, subject to an Interpol Red Notice for an unrelated offense. During their investigation, officers observed associates of the suspect loading large fabric sacks into a transport truck.
Officers intercepted the vehicle in the central Athens district of Ambelokipi, arresting the 36-year-old driver. This arrest triggered a series of sweeps across residences and storage sites linked to the network, culminating in significant seizures.
Details of the Raids and Seizures
The raids, organized on Wednesday, yielded a substantial amount of illicit substances and evidence. The key findings included:
- 179.17 kilograms of raw cannabis
- An electronic precision scale
- Four mobile phones
- Handwritten ledgers documenting the drug trade
- The delivery truck used for transport
- Approximately 3,000 euros in cash
These items underscore the organized nature of the criminal enterprise, which police allege was dedicated to storing and distributing drugs across the greater Attica region.
Arrests and Charges
Four suspects, described by police as foreign nationals aged between 36 and 60, were taken into custody. They were brought before a public prosecutor late Wednesday, facing felony charges that include operating a criminal organization and violating narcotics trafficking laws.
This case highlights the effectiveness of international police cooperation. The Interpol Red Notice, initially issued for a different offense, proved instrumental in placing Greek officers in the right place at the right time, ultimately exposing a supply chain that might otherwise have gone undetected.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and they have not ruled out the possibility of further arrests as new information comes to light. The dismantling of this network is a significant blow to drug distribution efforts within the Attica region.
The Hellenic Police continue their efforts to combat organized crime and drug trafficking, leveraging both domestic resources and international partnerships to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law.
Source: https://www.iefimerida.gr/english/interpol-fugitive-stakeout-cracks-open-major-cannabis-ring-athens
