Two criminal organizations involved in the trafficking of drugs in the northern suburbs of Attica were apprehended by EL.AS., following a major operation by the authorities.
This case has caused serious concern, as many minors, including high school students, are alleged to have been involved in the gangs’ activities.
The spokesperson for the Hellenic Police, Konstantia Dimoglidou, speaking to ERT, emphasized that “we are seeing significant involvement of minors,” noting that the two organizations were collaborating and had developed an organized trafficking network.
According to the investigation’s findings, the members of the rings were primarily trafficking cocaine and cannabis to young people. Transactions took place in public squares, at bus stops, in playgrounds, and in locations very close to schools.
Of particular concern is the fact that children aged 13 and 14 are involved in these cases. Authorities believe that the minors were initially approached as users and then, due to financial dependence, became dealers to their peers.
Konstantia Dimoglidou noted that in one case, a 14-year-old allegedly obtained cocaine, something which, as she said, is not often recorded at such a young age.
The investigation also revealed that the 21-year-old who appears to be the leader of the first organization attempted to flee and allegedly rammed a police officer, injuring him. According to authorities, the deputy leaders were a 19-year-old and a 17-year-old, who played an active role in recruiting younger children.
The organizations used coded phrases for their transactions and communicated via encrypted apps. At the same time, they had set up their own distribution network and even used luxury vehicles as hiding places for drugs.
A total of nine individuals were arrested during the operation. Police seized quantities of drugs, cash, and items related to the gangs’ activities, while investigations continue to identify other individuals involved.
