Italian smuggling ring intercepted for coral theft near Skopelos

On August 4, 2026, Greek authorities intercepted an Italian smuggling network attempting to export protected corals harvested from the seabed near the island of Skopelos. The operation was led by the General Directorate for the Control of Financial Transactions (GD DEOS) of the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). The illicit cargo, which was intended for transport to Italy, has an estimated value of 800,000 euros.

The investigation was not the result of a random sea patrol but was prompted by sophisticated risk analysis algorithms. AADE auditors monitored a specific transport company that exhibited suspicious patterns and vague customs declarations. Investigations into the company's records led authorities to a recreational vessel docked off the coast of Skopelos, which was being used as a floating base for the illegal harvesting of protected coral species. These corals are strictly regulated under both Greek and European legislation, including the Natura 2000 network.

Authorities successfully blocked the shipment before it could be transported abroad. The operation underscores the increasing use of data-driven intelligence in Greece to combat environmental crime and commercial fraud. Legal proceedings against the individuals involved are currently underway, as officials continue to process the evidence seized from both the transport company and the vessel involved in the criminal activity.