Woman arrested in Thessaloniki for keeping 212 animals in poor conditions

On October 23, 2026, a 54-year-old woman was arrested in Thermi, Thessaloniki, after authorities discovered 212 animals living in inadequate, unhygienic conditions. The operation was conducted following an urgent preliminary investigation by the Thermi Police Department, in collaboration with the Metropolitan Unit of Veterinary Services, the Public Health Directorate, and the Municipal Police.

The animals, consisting of 127 dogs, 73 cats, and 12 goats, were kept at the woman's home and ten other outdoor locations she managed. Officials reported that the animals were deprived of suitable, healthy, and clean shelter. The suspect was taken into custody and is expected to be referred to the public prosecutor. Veterinary authorities are currently cross-referencing the animals' identification data with the National Pet Registry to determine further administrative and legal actions.

This incident follows a prior encounter with law enforcement approximately two weeks ago, when the same individual was arrested for threatening a 35-year-old person. During that previous investigation, officials had already noted the presence of the animals on her property, leading the prosecutor to order a formal preliminary investigation into her animal welfare practices.