Police break three gangs of phone scammers

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have arrested two men wanted in Greece on suspicion of leading a criminal organization involved in contraband cigarette trafficking. The suspects, identified as Edik and Leonidas, are believed to hold top positions within the group, which operates primarily among Ukrainian, Russian and Georgian nationals. The arrest took place in Dubai, marking a significant step in international efforts to dismantle organized crime networks operating across borders. The criminal organization is accused of engaging in violent conflicts with other local criminal groups, including incidents of extortion, abduction, arson, explosions, grievous bodily harm and threats against rivals. It is also alleged to have orchestrated the killings of members of competing gangs. Greek authorities are currently preparing to formally request the extradition of the two suspects, indicating ongoing cooperation between Greek law enforcement and UAE officials. Separately, authorities on the Greek island of Crete have dismantled another criminal network suspected of committing fraud against the European Union, livestock theft and extortion. A police operation initiated early Monday has resulted in eight arrests so far. The gang is estimated to have generated at least €270,000 through its illegal activities. While details of the fraudulent schemes remain undisclosed, broader investigations by Greek and European authorities have led to over a thousand individuals being charged for alleged EU farm subsidy fraud, often involving fabricated claims for livestock or crop farming. In another incident, police in Athens arrested a man after discovering a hand grenade in his possession during an operation by the Organized Crime Division. The suspect had been under surveillance following intelligence suggesting he was planning an attack. According to reports, the individual had allegedly been instructed to target the residence of a judicial official, though the specific identity of the intended victim and the location of the residence have not been revealed. Officers from the Organized Crime Division, commonly referred to as the Greek FBI, intercepted the suspect at the home of an associate in Athens' southern suburbs, where the grenade was reportedly obtained. The operation occurred on Saturday, preventing what could have been a potential act of violence against a judicial figure. Despite the seizure of the explosive device, authorities have yet to provide additional details regarding the investigation or the motives behind the alleged plot. The case highlights the continued threat posed by organized crime in Greece, with different factions employing both economic and violent means to assert control over illicit markets. The three separate operations underscore the complex landscape of organized crime in Greece, spanning from high-level trafficking rings to localized acts of violence and financial fraud. Each incident reflects the diverse methods used by criminal organizations to expand their influence and maintain dominance within their respective domains. As Greek authorities continue to pursue legal action against these groups, the collaboration with international partners such as the UAE demonstrates a growing emphasis on cross-border law enforcement strategies to combat transnational organized crime.