Michalis Chrysochoidis: ’50 Unarmed Police Officers to Serve as Roma Community Mediators’

Michalis Chrysochoidis, Greece’s Minister for Citizen Protection, explained on Monday evening (29.09.2025) during an appearance on Action 24’s program “Piso apo tis Grammes” how the new police unit will operate within Roma settlements. Addressing high crime rates—reportedly reaching 75% among certain Roma communities—the ministry has launched a plan to prevent settlements from becoming isolated ghettos. A total of 50 unarmed police officers will be hired specifically to act as community mediators between law enforcement and Roma residents. These officers will undergo rigorous training and serve strictly in non-confrontational roles, supporting both police and citizens in promoting social peace. “Those interested will go through exhaustive training and will act as assistants in maintaining social harmony,” Chrysochoidis clarified. He emphasized that while many Roma are law-abiding citizens, targeted interventions are necessary. The new unit, inspired by similar European models, is unprecedented in Greece. The minister affirmed that police access to all areas is constitutionally guaranteed and non-negotiable. Additionally, he condemned excessive noise, gunfire, and illegal activities in neighborhoods, announcing that armed patrols will soon operate day and night in these areas to enforce the law and restore order.