A strong message of zero tolerance for crime and delinquency was sent from Gastouni by the Minister of Citizen Protection, Michalis Chrysochoidis, during meeting at the City Hall with the participation of the mayor, representatives of the local community, and officials from the Ilia Police Department.

At a time when residents’ concerns about crime are at the forefront, the minister appeared determined to set a clear course for the days ahead, emphasizing that the state has a duty to protect the social contract and ensure social peace.

“It is unthinkable that some should act to the detrimentof other citizens. It is unthinkable that social peace should be disrupted by criminal and delinquent behavior, by threats, or by incidents that put human lives at risk. “This must come to an end,” Mr. Chrysochoidis emphasized.

The minister made it clear that crime cannot be treated as a way of life or a “profession”, directly characterizing it as an enemy of society and noting that the insecurity it causes among citizens is no longer tolerable.

Crime is not a profession. It is an enemy of our society. The insecurity created by crime and delinquency cannot be tolerated,” he stated emphatically.

His reference to the specialized units of the Hellenic Police, specifically the so-called “Greek FBI,” is now actively operating in the field, as part of the operations currently underway to address the issues affecting the region.

Mr. Chrysochoidis assured residents that the Greek Police stands by their side and that his presence in Gastouni is tangible proof of the government’s commitment to restoring a sense of security. “We are here as the Greek Police. I express my support for all the residents of Gastouni. We stand with them for security and social peace,” he emphasized.

The minister’s visit is taking place at a time during which the residents of the area are expressing strong concern over repeated incidents of lawlessness, with the political and operational leadership of the Hellenic Police appearing determined to intensify interventions and checks, sending a message that the fight against crime is entering a new phase.