Greek authorities are conducting a massive sweep of downtown Athens in an effort to dismantle a gang whose members have carried out 129 muggings and robberies on the streets in and around the capital.
The Muggings
According to post by the Greek police on X, the perpetrators were primarily operating out of Athens’ metro, tram and train stations to snatch necklaces.
That being said, an additional report at SKAI tv noted that the criminals are “stealing everything they can get their hands on”, but primarily aim for gold crosses and necklaces as it is fairly easy to cash them in at gold exchange shops.
Below is a video of several of the thefts, including in Athens’ busy metro and on a beach.
Arrests Made
The Greek police says that they have already made 21 arrests in connection with the 129 muggings and robberies, noting that the cases have been “solved”.
SKAI adds that of the 21 already taken into custody, the majority are under the age of 18 or are teenagers. Meanwhile the police continue to look for dozens more.
Some of those arrested include unaccompanied minors originating from Egpyt, who have found the muggings to be an easy way to make some money, adds SKAI.
More Evidence of Juvenile Crime
These latest sweeps are further evidence of the concerning increase in juvenile crime in Greece, which rose 48% year on year from January – August 2024, according to a report at To Vima.
The report reveals a notable spike in regions like Attica, the Peloponnese, Crete, the Cyclades, and the Ionian Islands.
Arrests of juvenile offenders also climbed by 46%, while illegal activities involving minors increased by 60% during 2022-2023. The Cyclades, in particular, saw a doubling of incidents and a tripling of juvenile arrests.
