Greek police have struck a structured criminal group involved in extortion and blackmailing businesses in the capital, Athens.
Following a well-organized operation, law enforcement arrested five individuals, including three Albanians, one Greek, and one Egyptian.
One of the arrested Albanians is reportedly a member of the infamous “Lions” gang, known for its criminal activities.
Arrested Individuals:
- U.H, 41 years old, from Tirana
- R.K, 43 years old, from Klos
- N.M, 42 years old, from Selenica
- A 34-year-old Greek
- A 38-year-old Egyptian
Extortion Scheme and Areas of Operation
The criminal group had established an extortion scheme, moving through various districts of Athens, such as Patisia, Kypseli, and Agios Panteleimonas.
They entered businesses—primarily cafés and shops—and threatened the owners, demanding money in exchange for “protection.”
In many cases, they left a piece of paper with a phone number, waiting for businesses to contact them to negotiate the payment amount.
Footage obtained by police shows group members entering establishments with covered faces, using intimidation tactics to force business owners to comply.
According to Greek media, the group consisted of individuals with strong physical builds, which helped them instill fear and avoid complaints from victims.
Police Operation and Arrests
The investigation into the group began in early February after police received information about large-built individuals moving through Athens neighborhoods and demanding protection payments.
After prolonged surveillance, law enforcement identified the suspects and, on February 12, 2025, launched an operation in the Kato Patisia area.
At the time of their arrest, police found the suspects inside a health food store. A suspicious individual was waiting outside, while four men were inside—two of whom were already known to authorities for their criminal activities.
When officers moved in to arrest them, the group members responded violently and attempted to flee but were quickly subdued by the Department for Extortion Crimes.
Seized Items
During searches at the crime scene and their residences, authorities confiscated:
- Two vehicles and a motorcycle used for illegal activities
- Five folding knives and two firearm holsters
- A handgun and ammunition
- Bulletproof vests and masks used for concealing identities
- Handwritten notes with names, addresses, and money amounts
- Eight mobile phones and €6,900 in cash
Charges and Prosecution
Two of the arrested individuals have admitted to extortion and blackmail, confirming that their goal was to obtain money from businesses in exchange for “protection.” They now face charges for:
- Organized crime
- Extortion and blackmail
- Violence against officials and judicial personnel
- Illegal possession of weapons
Greek authorities continue to investigate whether the group had connections to other criminal networks and to identify additional collaborators. Meanwhile, the five detainees are expected to appear in court in the coming days.
This operation marks another significant blow against criminal groups operating in Greece, particularly those involved in extorting and blackmailing local businesses.
