Greek police have dealt a major blow to a cocaine trafficking network operating across Attica, dismantling an organized group that had established storage sites and distribution channels in multiple areas of the region. The operation, carried out early on June 10, 2026, involved officers from Athens’ Sub-Directorate for the Suppression and Investigation of Criminal Acts, supported by the Special Anti-Crime Unit (OPKE) and the Mobile Immediate Action Unit (EKAM).
Nine Arrested, Weapons and Drugs Seized
A total of nine suspects — aged between 24 and 49 — were arrested during coordinated raids on safe houses and operational premises used by the group. Among those detained was the alleged ringleader: a 39-year-old man of Albanian origin believed to have directed operations and coordinated members’ activities. Three deputies reportedly oversaw regional distribution, while lower-level members handled street-level sales.
Two of those deputies remain at large and are being actively sought. In addition to the nine arrests, five more individuals have been identified and are now wanted by authorities.
Coded Language and Operational Security
To evade detection, the group employed strict counter-surveillance measures: encrypted messaging apps on mobile phones; coded terminology — referring to cocaine as “meat,” “steak,” “beer,” “stuff,” “pieces,” “thin,” “white,” “gunpowder,” or “powder”; and crack cocaine as “stone” or “pebble.” They also substituted the word “lek” — Albania’s national currency — for euros in communications.
Members frequently rotated phone lines, using disposable “operational” devices to limit traceability.
Seizures Include Drugs, Cash, Firearms, and Equipment
During searches of the group’s premises, authorities seized:
- 827.1 grams of cocaine
- A small quantity of cannabis
- Three pistols
- A magazine from a military rifle
- 119 rounds of ammunition
- Multiple operational mobile phones
- Five vehicles used in drug transport
- €14,505 and $470 USD in cash
- Three walkie-talkies
- Seven high-precision digital scales
- A baton, pepper spray, and three knives
The total illicit proceeds generated by the organization are estimated to exceed €900,000. All suspects have been brought before the competent prosecutor and face charges including participation in a criminal organization, narcotics trafficking, illegal weapons possession, money laundering, document forgery, and violations of immigration law.