A coordinated law enforcement operation late Saturday night in Evia, Greece, led to the exposure of a migrant smuggling ring operating across multiple areas of the island. The operation was carried out by the Hellenic Coast Guardwith the support of the National Intelligence Service (EYP), following targeted intelligence gathering.
Authorities located four vehicles transporting a total of 32 migrants in three separate regions. Two drivers were arrested, while two others managed to flee the scene.
Details of the operation
According to an official statement by the Hellenic Coast Guard, the operation was conducted after analyzing intelligence provided by EYP, in an effort to dismantle organized networks involved in illegal migrant transportation.
- In the area of Nea Styra, two vehicles were intercepted carrying 15 migrants. The drivers, Iraqi nationals aged 47 and 29, were arrested and charged under Article 24, Paragraph 4 of Law 5038/2023 (Greek Migration Code).
- In Aliveri, a third vehicle was located with 9 migrants on board. The driver fled on foot after spotting Coast Guard patrol vehicles.
- A fourth vehicle, found in Agios Stefanos (Chalkida), was carrying 8 migrants. The driver also abandoned the vehicle and escaped, despite the presence of the Coast Guard and the local special police unit (OPKE).
Seizures and investigation
The Central Port Authority of Chalkida, which is leading the ongoing preliminary investigation, confirmed the following items were seized:
- Four private vehicles (I.X.E.) used in the smuggling operation
- Two mobile phones belonging to the arrested suspects
- Cash amounting to €385
- And 14,440 Turkish lira
A growing challenge for border authorities
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Greek authorities in tackling human trafficking and border security, especially as smuggling networks adapt and shift their routes across the mainland and islands.
“These operations underscore the importance of inter-agency cooperation and rapid response capabilities in combating organized trafficking networks,” a law enforcement source noted.
The Coast Guard remains on high alert, and further operations are expected as intelligence points to increased smuggling attempts across central Greece.
Source: pagenews.gr