Large-scale police operation dismantles criminal network on Crete

On July 27, 2026, Greek authorities conducted a significant police operation across the island of Crete, resulting in the dismantling of a criminal organization involved in systemic livestock theft, extortion, and fraudulent acquisition of European agricultural subsidies. The operation involved units from the Organized Crime Division (DAOE), the Special Counter-Terrorism Unit (TEKAM), and local police forces from Heraklion and Lasithi.

Eight individuals—seven men and one woman—were arrested during the raids. Four primary suspects, aged 47, 34, 30, and 19, are linked directly to the criminal organization. The remaining four suspects, aged 69, 49, 45, and 36, face charges related to electricity theft, illegal weapon possession, animal welfare violations, and animal cruelty. Legal proceedings are currently underway for those detained.

This crackdown follows ongoing investigations into fraudulent agricultural practices and rural crime in the region. Authorities continue to examine the extent of the suspects' involvement in these illegal operations, with the judicial process currently ongoing for the eight arrested individuals.