Operation ‘Portfolios’: A Plan Leading to 900 Arrests and Over 50,000 Checks in Public Transport

Hundreds of drug dealers, various offenders, and even individuals carrying illegal weapons have been arrested by the men and women of ELAS during a recent operation aimed at enhancing security across Athens’ public transportation network. Metro, Electric Railway, Tram, Suburban Railway, and buses are now safer as per data collected by the Ministry of Citizen Protection. In just the first quarter since the implementation of this policing plan, there have been 900 arrests and over 50,000 checks conducted. The initiative began in mid-February with a focus on stations, stops, routes, and network sections where most criminal incidents occur. With 270 police officers involved, including an additional 50 uniformed officers deployed recently, the majority of arrests—325 in total—stem from more than 16,700 checks performed on buses. These arrests involve drug possession, illegal weapons, and unlawful presence in the country. Another 299 people were arrested in the metro, Electric Railway, and Tram systems, where over 21,900 checks were carried out. Many arrests in urban rail transport relate to thefts. In the suburban railway, over 16,000 checks resulted in 276 arrests. Authorities emphasize that this operation will continue with increased intensity, especially during summer months due to higher tourist presence.