ATHENS, December 23 – A two-day enforcement blitz by joint teams of the Municipal Police, Hellenic Police, and the National Transparency Authority (EAD) on December 12 and 13 resulted in fines totaling €19,600. The operations targeted compliance with anti-smoking laws and regulations prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages to minors in various entertainment venues across Athens.
Extensive Checks in Popular Athens Districts
The inspections focused on popular areas including Votanikos, Gazi, Kerameikos, Thissio, Petralona, Kolonaki, Syntagma, Omonia, Monastiraki, and Koukaki. The primary objective was to ensure strict adherence to public health regulations and protect minors.
The Municipality of Athens released data today confirming that out of 24 businesses inspected, 14 violations were identified, leading to the imposition of significant fines. Specifically, the on-site checks resulted in the following:
- Two fines of €4,500 each were issued to business owners for failing to implement preventative measures, such as removing ashtrays from indoor areas.
- Five fines totaling €13,500 were imposed on business owners for tolerating smoking within their establishments.
- Six fines of €600 each were issued to individuals caught smoking in prohibited areas.
- One fine of €1,000 was levied against a business owner for allowing minors under the age of 17 to enter and remain in the establishment.
Mayor Haris Doukas Pledges Continued Enforcement
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas stated that these controls would continue and intensify throughout the festive season. “Closing down businesses is a very important measure, but unfortunately, it is not enough on its own to combat delinquency, especially in entertainment venues. That is why we are cooperating with all relevant authorities and strengthening prevention efforts. Targeted checks will intensify during the holidays,” Mayor Doukas emphasized. He added, “We are activating every available mechanism to limit incidents that pose risks to public safety, such as those related to alcohol consumption, following the recent dramatic incidents involving underage victims.”
National Transparency Authority’s Commitment
Alexandra Rogakou, Administrator of the National Transparency Authority, underscored the ongoing commitment: “The implementation of EAD’s inspection program regarding the correct and strict observance of anti-smoking legislation, as well as provisions for the protection of minors from tobacco and alcohol products, continues at an intensive pace, with the main goals of protecting public health, as well as protecting healthy competition among businesses.”
Increased Enforcement and Collaboration
This enforcement drive is a direct result of enhanced collaboration, which significantly strengthened in November 2024, expanding checks to include alcohol distribution. According to available data, the Municipal Police conducted 1,439 checks for anti-smoking law enforcement in 2023. This year, checks have dramatically increased, exceeding 1,900, during which 120 violations were confirmed.
The authorities are committed to maintaining public order and ensuring the well-being of citizens, particularly during periods of increased social activity.
Source: ertnews.gr
