Criminal network exploiting women through fake dating agency dismantled in Athens

On June 17 and 18, Greek authorities dismantled a criminal network involved in human trafficking and sexual exploitation. The operation was led by the Sub-directorate for Combating Trafficking and Human Exploitation in Athens, with assistance from the Intelligence and Special Actions unit, the NGO A21, and Our Rescue, as well as the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Four individuals were arrested, including a 26-year-old Greek man, two foreign nationals aged 27 and 19, and a 31-year-old woman. The suspects face charges including human trafficking, pimping, and drug law violations. Three foreign women who were victims of the organization were rescued and are receiving protection. The investigation was initiated following a report to the 112 emergency line by one of the victims. Authorities also uncovered links between the group and a second criminal operation engaged in drug trafficking.