Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrysochoidis presented from Crete the new strategy against crime, following the massacre in Vorizia that left two dead.
“I am not here retrospectively. I am not here to repeat the obvious,” he stated, sending a clear message that local mafias will no longer have free rein on the island.
“Greek FBI” Subdivision in Crete
The Organized Crime Division will have a new Subdivision in Crete with 122 officers, nationwide jurisdiction, and full operational capacity.
“We will not allow criminality, illegal gun possession, and violence to tarnish this beautiful region,” the minister emphasized.
New Gun Control Measures
- Felony penalties for illegal possession or transport of firearms, pistols, and revolvers.
- Recidivism: up to 10 years imprisonment, non-convertible or suspendable.
- Aggravating circumstances include livestock theft, violence, and extortion.
- Prosecutors can take preventive measures in life-threatening disputes between groups.
- Review of shooting licenses, with voluntary surrender of firearms without penalties.
- Ban on gun possession in public spaces and large social events, including weddings and fairs.
New Special Criminal Activities Department
- 100 new recruits by March 1, 2026.
- 20 officers will form the operational unit for investigations and special actions.
- Focus: murder, illegal arms trafficking, extortion, robbery, theft, livestock theft, and agricultural damage.
Merger of TAE with OPKE Units
Crete’s six TAE units (240 officers) will merge with OPKE units, creating a unified, flexible, and highly operational force. The new structure will closely coordinate with the Crete Security Subdivision and be reinforced by 50 new officers starting March 1, 2026.
Statistics and Results
- Crete accounts for 2% of thefts, 1% of robberies in Greece, with 100% homicide clearance.
- Last ten months: 11.65% decrease in thefts/burglaries, 10.53% decrease in robberies.
- Fatal road accidents: 35% reduction; fatalities: 41% reduction.
- Tourism: 6.5 million annual visitors, zero robberies reported.
“Crete proves that with proper policing and strategy, security can become a reality,” said the minister.
Source: pagenews.gr