12 Arrests in Crackdown on Violent Football Fan Gangs in Greece

Greek police have made 12 arrests as part of a crackdown on two organized crime groups composed of fans of a major Greek football team. The groups are accused of violent offenses, including attacks on fans of rival teams and police officers, as well as drug trafficking. The investigation uncovered eight homemade explosive devices, three iron bars, two machetes, two folding bats, a pellet gun, and the sum of €17,797.50. According to law enforcement, the criminal organizations were responsible for multiple violent and organized attacks, with one notable incident occurring during a demonstration in central Athens on February 28, 2025, marking two years since the Tempi tragedy. The first criminal organization consisted of 11 members, four of whom held leadership roles, targeting rival fans in areas around Neos Kosmos. The second group, operating out of Agios Dimitrios, was led by an individual with significant influence in fan violence incidents. Both groups engaged in attacks unrelated to fandom, targeting police officers. Investigations revealed that seven members were also involved in drug sales and usage. The operation involved specialized police units and K-9 teams, dismantling these organizations which had been active since at least October 2024.